We have been seriously concerned and prayerful for several members within our South Fork family. Some have lost loved ones. Some have seen loved ones face very trying and life-threatening health situations. Our hearts and prayers are with several of our members and their families as they face difficult days because of the great loss they have experienced, as well as for those who face major health issues with themselves or their family members. Please note the Prayer List in this Family Page, as well as updates that are given by email and by announcement. We pray that God would bring healing and comfort, strength and peace to all.

We pray for the Lowery family. Barbara and her family have fought such a brave fight. She has been an inspiration to all of us. She has kept a wonderful spirit of grace and strength, honesty and humility, throughout her battles with cancer. And she has won the battle. Let it never be said that Barbara Lowery lost this fight. She has won it. Hands down, she has won.

“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:6-8)

These words of Paul strike us today as if Barbara had just dictated them herself this past week. I will never again be able to sing the last verse of “Because He Lives” without thinking of my friend Barbara. Let this verse give strength and faith, comfort and hope to Barbara’s family, and to all of us who have known and loved her. Thank you, O Lord, for the great and wonderful gift you have given us in this gracious, faithful woman.

“And then one day, I’ll cross that river. I’ll fight life’s final war with pain. And then as death gives way to victory, I’ll see the lights of glory and I’ll know He reigns. Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives.”