Sept 23 08

It’s hard, yet heartwarming, to go through some of Andrew’s old school assignments. Chris has done an amazing job of keeping boxes of some of Andrew’s and Ali’s school work and other crafts that they have done through the years…and pictures, too. One of the most recent items was a “Spiritual Biography” assignment that Andrew did a couple of months before he got sick.

In his paper, Andrew spoke about his strong faith and love of God. The depth of Andrew’s faith was so impressive. Yet another reason that he is a role model for me. The part of the essay that I would like to share with you dealt with the question “Three questions I would ask God if given the chance”. Andrew asked great questions. Here is the first of Andrew’s three questions, in his words:

“1.) How do you decide who is ready to meet you in Heaven?

I would ask this because I want to know why He would take my Pop-Pop’s life without me ever getting to meet him. {Andrew’s grandfather died 3 months before Andrew was born.} Also, why take the lives of innocent people like Steve, Mrs. Jule, and Mr. Grabowski when you could take the lives of killers and rapists instead?”

Andrew, that’s a great question and your frustration in the last sentence is something that many of us have struggled with. I originally asked that question too, but then I realized that living on this Earth is not the prize…getting to Heaven is! God could certainly take killers and rapists from this world, but they may not be going to where you are now. I believe that God put you on this Earth for a reason and he brought you to Heaven for a reason. You have earned your place in Heaven; the ultimate destination that every parent wants for their children. I just wasn’t ready for you to go so soon and and I always expected your Mom and I would go first.

Andrew demonstrated such strong faith during his journey in the hospital. In my heart, I truly believe that he was at peace with going to Heaven. Knowing Andrew, I know he was probably sad because he was leaving us, was worried about us, but also pretty excited to be called to Heaven by God. I believe this; I’ve got to believe this.

I’ll write about the next two questions in my next Journal Update. Thanks for reading.

Please keep Andrew and all of the kids in your thoughts & prayers.

Live Like Andrew - have faith.

B+

Ali’s & Andrew’s Dad