02.05.07
HOMECOMING!!
Al is home with Jesus, safely through the Valley of the Shadow, and he has woken up in the glorious sunshine of heaven, face to face with the savior he has loved for 44 years. We are so glad!!
Al slipped mostly out of consciousness during the night, maybe around 2 a.m., and starting around 10 this morning he began struggling to breathe. We thought that meant that he would pass away soon, but he remained with us for ten more hours, laboring to breathe all that time. We kept talking to him, singing, reading Scripture, praying, touching him, and visiting around his bedside, occasionally laughing–even uproariously on two occasions. He was there in the midst of us, very much a part of us, even when he was to all appearances unresponsive. They say that people in that state can hear what is being said, so we kept including him in our conversations. We kept telling him how much we loved him and were thankful for him, and we kept telling him how thankful (and even envious) we were that he would soon be seeing Jesus face to face. Sometimes we laughed, sometimes we cried, and often we sang songs of worship.
Our hope from the beginning was that we could all be there at the moment that Al actually died, but after a mostly sleepless night last night we realized that we would need to sleep tonight and that probably we would not all be awake when it happened. That was okay, because we had had so much wonderful time with him in the past several days. Each of us let go of that expectation with peace.
Yet the Lord graciously arranged it so that in fact we were all there in the room with him when he died. Some of us got there only a few seconds before, but we were all there. Al simply took his last breath, his heart slowed down, and he was gone. We cheered, we cried, we hugged each other, we practically literally danced with joy at the sure knowledge that Al was free–from pain, from exhaustion, from labored breathing, from the fibromyalgia that has pummeled him for years and years, from cancer, and from death itself. There just weren’t enough ways to express the joy we felt. The best we could do was sing with every bit of gusto in our souls the song “On Jordan’s Stormy Banks I Stand.”
On Jordan’s stormy banks I stand,
and cast a wishful eye
To Canaan’s fair and happy land,
where my possessions lie.I am bound for the promised land,
I am bound for the promised land;
Oh, who will come and go with me?
I am bound for the promised land.O’er all those wide extended plains
shines one eternal day;
There God the Son forever reigns,
and scatters night away.I am bound for the promised land,
I am bound for the promised land;
Oh, who will come and go with me?
I am bound for the promised land.No chilling winds or poisonous breath
can reach that healthful shore;
Sickness and sorrow, pain and death,
are felt and feared no more.I am bound for the promised land,
I am bound for the promised land;
Oh, who will come and go with me?
I am bound for the promised land.When I shall reach that happy place,
I’ll be forever blest,
For I shall see my Father’s face,
and in his bosom rest.I am bound for the promised land,
I am bound for the promised land;
Oh, who will come and go with me?
I am bound for the promised land.
What a celebration! No doubt the sadness will set in, perhaps tomorrow, but for tonight we can feel only joy, intense and exhilarating. And relief. We have all been walking around since heaving sigh after sigh of relief and feeling the tension, and concern, and adrenaline drain out of our bodies.
Since we had been praying over and over for two days that God would come and take Al home and waiting and waiting for him to answer that prayer, we yearned for that release and homecoming more than anything. So when it finally happened, there was nothing left to feel but joy–no regret, no wising for more time, no vestiges of wanting to hang on. Perhaps that was God’s gift to us in making us wait. His timing is perfect.
I have to go, as there is still lots to do, but I wanted to let you know that the Lord’s faithful servant is home at last in his Father’s house. Hallelujah! Rejoice! Rejoice! Rejoice!
Libbie
John Oliff said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:19 pm
Please know we are still praying for you. The Lord is indeed kind.
Grace and peace
John, for all the Oliffs
Xavier Pickett said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:20 pm
My prayers are indeed with the family.
Praying your strength in our Lord.
Phil Stebbins said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:25 pm
Praise God and know that Al is with Him always. Our hearts and prayers are with you all.
Love,
Phil & Linda
Drew Matter said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:31 pm
Libbie, I have never mourned with a smile on my face before. With a heavy joy Susie and I lift you all up to the Lord. What an amazing thing to meditate on the end of Rev. 7 and envision Al’s face so distinctly. Glory, Glory, Glory… ~Drew
Malcolm Osborn said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:32 pm
Libbie,
I checked your blog at 10:20 before going to bed. What a wonderful testimony to God’s grace. My prayers continue for you, thankfully Al doesn’t need them anymore.
Malcolm
Becky Wilson said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:32 pm
NEVERTHELESS, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress…
The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of the
shadow of death
a light has dawned…
You have shattered
the yoke that burdens them
the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor…
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on
his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty
God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of
Peace…
The zeal of the Lord Almighty
will accomplish this.
(Is. 9:1, 2, 4, 6, 7b)
Blessings,
Becky
Bev Fitzpatrick said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:40 pm
Libbie, Thanks for letting us feel like we were there with you all to send Al on. I could feel the joy of the moment as I read! Praying now for sweet sleep for you all and for energy for the next days and weeks. Much love, Bev
Becky Wilson said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:42 pm
NEVERTHELESS, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress…
The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of the
shadow of death
a light has dawned…
You have shattered
the yoke that burdens them,
the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor..
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on
his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty
God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of
Peace…
The zeal of the LORD Almighty
will accomplish this.
Isaiah 9
kim clement said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:42 pm
I’m singing with all of you…I am bound, I am bound, I am bound for the promised land! What a joyful celebration it must have been! Love to all of you and we will continue to keep you in our prayers.
Kim (and Jerry)
Linda Foh said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:43 pm
Dear Libbie & family,
I pray that God will give you all sound sleep tonight and strength for the next days. At some point I hope you can take the time to read the many comments that have been posted here over the last few days - it’s been like a global prayer meeting. Al would be embarrassed to read it all but God used him and you to minister to so many people.
“Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.”
Tsun En and Grace Lu said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:43 pm
Dear Libbie:
Tsun En just turned on the computer, and he told Grace about the “Free of Pain” of our beloved Professsor Al Groves. Yes, Jesus Christ is resurrected, that will happen the same for Professor Groves and all of us with glorious body in the Kingdom of God.
You and your family will be in our prayers.
In Christ,
Grace and Tsun En Lu
Fred said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:44 pm
Dear Libbie,
Just checked before turning in.
I know that you will be flooded with poems, &c. This old hymn is one of our favourites from the “Heaven” CD by Red Mountain Church.
“There Forever Stay”
I soon shall be landed on yonder shores of bliss.
There, with my powers expanded shall dwell where Jesus is.
I soon shall be seated with Jesus on his throne,
My foes all defeated, and sacred peace made known.
With Father, Son, and Spirit, I shall forever reign,
Sweet joy and peace inherit, and every good obtain.
I soon shall reach the harbour to which I speed my way,
Shall cease from all my labour, and there forever stay.
Sweet Spirit, guide me over this life’s tempestuous sea;
Keep me, O holy Lover, for I confide in thee.
O that in Jordan’s swelling I may be helped to sing.
And pass the river, telling the triumphs of my king.
And for my dearest brother, Al, “soon” is “now”, and “shall” is “am”. What a relief! What a blessing! What a gracious God and loving heavenly Father!
As Horatio says, “Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels hymn thee to thy rest!”
Blessings of peace be upon your house this night and aye.
Fred
Greg & Christine Hewlett said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:45 pm
Libbie,
Yesterday I was crying tears of joy and grief. Actually, mostly grief. But how can I do anything tonight but rejoice after reading your report! I read these remarkable words and wonder with utter bewilderment, “Where, O Death, is your sting?”
I give thanks to the Lord that he has sustained Al, you and your family through all of this - actually, not just sustained you but given you such victorious joy. Christine and I will rejoice with you tonight.
Love,
Greg
Craig Higgins said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:47 pm
Depart, O Christian soul, out of this world;
In the Name of God the Father Almighty who created you;
In the Name of Jesus Christ who redeemed you;
In the Name of the Holy Spirit who sanctifies you.
May your rest be this day in peace,
and your dwelling place in the Paradise of God.
– Book of Common Prayer
Christ is risen from the dead,
trampling down death by death,
and to those in tombs,
bestowing life!
– Eastern Orthodox song for Easter
We love you guys, and share in both the joy and the sadness.
Craig
Chris and Emily said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:47 pm
Dear Libbie and family,
We rejoice with you. What a comfort to know that Al is at home with the Lord. Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!
With love for you all,
Chris, Emily, Catherine and Thomas
Allie Stryd said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:47 pm
Libbie, Alasdair, Lauren, Becky, Eowyn, and Alden,
We weep and rejoice with you. We are proud and blessed to have known him. And we see a harvest from Al’s life, even this little community on this blog, reading all these entries. It’s been so humbling for us to read and an unbelievable call to faith. Thank you God, for Al Groves, and for his family.
We are sending you all hugs. We love you.
todd and allie
Keallie Wozny said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:47 pm
“Holy, holy, holy, all the saints adore Thee, casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea.”
Lord Jesus, thank You for Al’s heart for You and for the many hearts he touched during his time on earth. Thank You for relieving his suffering and that he can now stand before You in glory, worshipping You right at Your very feet. Bless Libbie, Alasdair, Becky, Eowyn, and Alden as they miss him and now adjust to life without him. Continue to fill them with peace and joy even in their grief. How holy You are, Lord God Almighty, how worthy of worship, glory, honor, and praise. Your wisdom and faithfulness are far above ours, and we trust You, Lord, for the road You have chosen for the Groves family. Sustain them now. Blessed be the name of the Lord!
We rejoice with you, even with tears on our faces, and will continue to hold you up in prayer.
Much love,
Keallie
Keith and Heidi said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:50 pm
What a homecoming! Tonight we rejoice with you, Alasdair, Rebeckah, Eowyn, and Alden. We will continue to pray for you all the rest of the week. “Life! Life! Eternal Life!” -Christian from Pilgrims Progress, running towards the Celestial City
John Yenchko said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:52 pm
Libbie,
Many continue to pray with and for you. For our friend, elder and professor, “The term is over; the holiday has begun…”
This world is poorer.
John
Stephen Young said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:52 pm
Deb and I have been praying for you all this evening and will continue to do so. I am trying to rejoice now, in the midst of my tears, as I confess that our Lord is good.
For some time now I have meditated upon 2 Cor. 6 with respect to Al…
…but as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: by great endurance, in afflications, hardships, calamities…sleepless nights, hunger, by purity, knowledge, patience, kindess, the Holy Spirit, genuine love, by truthful speech, and the power of God…
Deb and I will continue to pray for you all. Do call if we can help you in any way.
Stephen
Tim Geisse said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:53 pm
Al has left the land of the dying and is now in the land of the living. As David said, he will not return to us, but we will go to him. Thank you Libbie, for all you have done and continue to do. You and your family are incredible.
Bruce Johnson said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:55 pm
“I may not see the storyline until the play is done;
I may not hear the inner rhyme or grasp the hidden reason.
Yet boldly I will go–I know deliverance must come,
For every purpose has its time; it blossoms in due season.”
(from “The Heart of the King” a song Libbie “commissioned” in 1997)
“When my spirit faints, you clothe me with favor;
The garments of sorrow are taken away.
Rejoice, all you saints; and hope in your Savior–
The night filled with weeping will soon turn to Day!”
(from “My Heart Dances for Joy”, 1996)
Mary Ferris said,
February 5, 2007 at 10:57 pm
Rejoicing with you Groves family. Thankfullness to God for all the special gifts and blessings he has given you all through this journey. Praise to him for the merciful way he allowed Al to pass on to heaven as you surrounded him and prayed him onward. May God continue to shower you all with his fatherly love and the peace that passes all understanding. I am picturing Al and Ben hugging each other in their new home.
Mary
Dan and Nancy Macha said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:11 pm
Yes, Mary, one of many reunions under way.
He is not here he has risen
Dan and Nancy Macha
Steve and Carolyn Ritter said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:16 pm
Libbie, Alasdair, Lauren, Beck, Eowyn, Alden,
Thanks so much for sharing your joy with us. It seems that heaven is especially real at such moments as these and earthly things have lost a bit more of their substance. Al is on his way, ‘further up and further in!’, seeing Jesus face to face! He’s there! Praising God (and envying Al) along with you. Much love to you all and continued prayers for you and all that is ahead.
Steve, Carolyn, Evan, Elias and Anya
Islandgirl said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:17 pm
My love and prayers to you Libbie, your children and your extended family during this time- may you find the strength and feel the presence of God’s unfailing love wrapped around you.
He is the source of every mercy and the God who comforts us.
2 Corinthians 1:3 NLT
David & Sharon Covington said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:22 pm
Libbie, Alistair, Loren, Becky, Eowen, Alden–
We rejoice with you, weep with you, and hold you in our hearts. Thanks for helping us learn the hope of heaven, seeing it through your eyes. Much love–David and Sharon
Jeff said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:32 pm
Libby and Kids,
Upon hearing of Al’s physical death, I smiled, somewhat, as I recalled a brief but pointed conversation I had with him in my backyard in July. Granted, we had this conversation when he was devouring nearly ALL of some filet I was cooking for OTHERS supposedly in his charge — at least it seemed like he would never stop! . . .) but he liked it, so I cut him another small piece and told hem: “If its good enough to eat, then eat it, Al!”
What I said to Al was that I was envious that he was more likely to meet Christ before I would. I felt a bit awkward at that moment as I couldn’t quite take-back my words, but they were delivered sincerely.
Al then stated that upon hearing of the physical death of an Uncle or Grandfather (I forget which), he, too, admitted that he was at first a bit mad and envious since that one saw the Saviour first, as well.
Any way, it was a conversation on a hot July evening that I will never forget. (And, by the way, and thankfully, there was just enough food for all of the New York students that came. So Al got-off easy!)
Any way, upon hearing the news this evening, I stood in my backyard at the spot that we had this conversation, and I sang the Doxology to myself. I then thanked God for this much beloved man. Diana has said on more than one occasion that, “Al was the most godly man she has ever met.”
I trust that you and your children will recieve blessing after blessing now that your husband and father is no longer here with you. You will need these blessings. I also hope and trust that you will grieve him much, as that is also a testament to God for his gift to you.
As my father always said at many a funeral he conducted, and it was said (in honor of him) at his: “Life is short, even at its longest.” The Scriptures are clear on this point: All men are appointed to die and then to face the Judgement. And the Scriptures are also very clear on the related point for the believer in Christ: The angels in Heaven rejoice at the death of one of His saints.
Maryann Mahlen said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:35 pm
Brett and I have been marveling at the incredible and joyful anticipation you all had of such a godly Christ-follower entering Abraham’s bosom. Professor Groves took seriously his obligation to teach the truth of Christ to his thousands of students with much love and compassion. May he sing ‘Alleluia’ with the angels and hear God say “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Love,
Maryann Mahlen (fka ‘Smith’)
Danielle Hagerty said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:36 pm
I greive and rejoyce with you! Although i didnt personally know Mr Groves, I knew Eyowen and Alden had to get it from somewhere! =) God bless you all. Your family is such a blessing you dont even know.
I LOVE THE GROVES!
God bless you all,
Danielle
Charles McGowan said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:38 pm
Praise God! Al has, by God’s grace, graduated with honors and is now in the presence of our blessed Lord. All of us in the WTS community share your joy and your sorrow. The entire family will by in my prayers as you walk through this period of deep grief. “…the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)
nan powlison said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:41 pm
I am down in VA with Gwen and saw the baby on the ultra sound today-new life. And Al— what a life! How we give thanks for you and for God’s glory shining through you to us. Thanks you.
Last night I was at a Superbowl party at the home of the people where Gwen and Andrew live(big estate-G and A live in a gate house and work for rent) and there was a woman here who had known Al and Libbie at Dartmouth. She told about the night her mother was dying of cancer. She didn’t know where to run. Then she remembered this guy Al Groves who lived upstairs in her dorm,so she ran up and he prayed with her. Her name was Merideth Shuster,now Noble. She and her 3 children go to the church here where Gwen and her husband minister. A wonderful divine appointment–I’m afraid we didn’t watch much of the Superbowl, we went into a quiet room and told Dartmouth and Groves stories and then prayed for you all together. It was wonderful for her and for me to have each other since neither one of us had a husband to cry with that night. God is so good.
Love and please feel free to tell people coming to the funeral that we have space for about 5or 6 people at our house. Love Nan
mark gornik said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:49 pm
On behalf of all us who worked with Al in the New York City program of WTS, we are immensely thankful for his life and witness. He was deeply loved and left a mark of grace on all of us. We mourn yet we have hope, and we offer our prayers for his family. Thanks be to God for Al Groves and the privilege it was to be his friend, and to learn of the living God through his friendship.
Mingzhi Chen said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:54 pm
Dear Libbie:
You are right, it’s homecoming. Prof. Groves is now in at home with our Father in Heaven. What a comforting thing to know, and what a great hope we have in Christ Jesus. My heart and my prayers are with you and your family. Thank you for sharing with us, it’s a great testimony to many, Christian or non-Christian. Prof. Groves will continue to be a blessing and encouragement to many of us through his testimony.
Thank you, for our Lord Jesus is glorified.
Mingzhi Chen
David and Awilda said,
February 5, 2007 at 11:58 pm
Thank-you for the foretaste of resurrection hope!
Al taught me so much - about fatherhood and husbandry as much as Isaiah and Deuteronomy. But I never “caught” him teaching. Only discipling.
Thank YOU for discipling us about Christ’s victory over death even though I just feel loss at the moment.
Love and hugs from the Rowes
Elsy Castellanos said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:02 am
Dear Libbie and children,
We love you and grieve with you. You have been a great testimony to all of us. Thank you for sharing your life with us. I feel very honored to have met you and we experienced the love of Christ from your family. You made us feel welcome the few times we went to your house. I admire your strength and joy during this hard time Al has real LIFE now! What a joy!
We will continue to pray for you all.
Love and blessings,
Elsy, Andres & Aurea
John Mindy McCracken said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:02 am
Dear Libbie,
Thank you so much for sharing your lives with us through this blog. Mindy and I have been reading it almost every night before going to bed. It has strengthened our hope of heaven, warmed out hearts, made us very sad at times, and has helped keep alive that on-going gospel revolution in our own souls. I always knew what Mindy was reading when I walked into the bedroom and tears were streaming down her face. Thank you for blessing us with this blog. Even though I only saw Al three times in the past 24 months, I remember vividly his classes and move nights at your house and the many conversations we shared over the years.
Al was a blessing in my life. John Yenchko nailed it on the head when he wrote that the world is now poorer. Our prayers and love are with you as you begin God’s new calling in your life without Al. But praise God that soon we will all be together.
Love,
John & Mindy McCracken
Natalie Carley said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:09 am
Dear Libbie,
Thank you so much for sharing with us so quickly Al’s passing into Jesus’ arms and so vividly your joy as a family. You are all incredible. I’ve never known anyone who could “do death” so well! In your midst death clearly has lost its sting and is a conquered foe!
I do praise God that Al is whole at last. And I am amazed that the period of being bed-ridden which could have gone on for weeks lasted only 6 days (I gathered from your posts). Thank you, Lord for your mercy to these dear sweet friends!
When we prayed as a family tonight (my last night in Merida), I focused on Eowyn and Alden.
I can’t wait to see you again even though I will miss Al sorely when I do.
Now rest, rest rest.
And receive love, love, love, and a virtual hug from us down here in Mexico.
Natalie
Sam Sutter said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:40 am
never have I wanted more to here the story from the other side of the Jordan. I wonder what his next blog entry would look like? It’s been a great journey so far.
Rick and Nancy said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:45 am
Our brother is no longer with us and we mourn our loss. But, we rejoice with you that Al is in the place where “sickness and sorrow, pain and death are felt and feared no more”.
Love Rick and Nancy
Bennett family said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:50 am
Dear Libbie,
Amid our tears we praise the Lord for receiving Al to Himself in glory for all eternity. We thank God for His perfect timing. We thank Him for Al’s life and the picture he painted of the glorious hope of the resurrection and the life eternal by his testimony of grace in life and now death. Thank you for the example of the gospel that your family has so lovingly shared with so many. We will continue to hold you in prayer. May God grant you restful sleep.
Love, Kim and Bruce
Eileen Barclay said,
February 6, 2007 at 1:17 am
Dear Eowyn, my father was my best friend. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t thank God for the earthly father that he gave me. My heart has healed from the brokenness of not having him anymore on this part of the journey. I just rejoice to have loved and been loved by him. Our heavenly Father loves us so much more and so much more deeply. I know you comprehend this. For so many years I have seen many children suffer from not knowing the love of their earthly dad. You helped our Jessie understand the love Our Heavenly Father has for her. In the nine months she lived with us I never saw her understand more clearly that God loved her, than when she had talked with you. I know you will cherish in the depth of your being the love for Jesus your dad has shown you. Together our fathers are dancing For the King of the Universe!! Thank you for loving Jessie during such a hard time in your life. She will never forget. I pray you are sleeping now being comforted by our Savior Jesus. I look forward to hugging you soon, Eileen
Ying Xu said,
February 6, 2007 at 1:36 am
Dear Libbie and family,
Thanks for so generously sharing your hope, faith and love with us. I thank God for everyone of you. The living Jesus is so real and near to you, with you and through you. May His unfailing love continue carrying you through every moment ahead, bringing you comfort in pastures of rest and leading you to waters of peace.
Minutes ago, while I was thinking of Prof. Groves and his impact on me, I heard this song, which perfectly express my gratitude for him as my professer and pastor. Here are the words:
We will remember you.
We will remember you.
Of your goodness we will speak,
In our hearts your love we keep,
And forever we remember you.
O Treasured gift for so many;
O love song of God to us all;
With Integrity you lived
With great charity you gave,
And Forever we remember you.
We will remember you.
We will remember you.
Of your goodness we will speak,
In our hearts your love we keep,
And forever we remember you.
O blessed gift to your family;
O love song of God to us all;
By your presence we were blessed,
by your spirit we are touched,
And forever we remember you.
We will remember you.
We will remember you.
Of your goodness we will speak,
In our hearts your love we keep,
And forever we remember you.
Whenever we think of you,
We will give thanks to God.
For each day we are reminded of your faithfulness, your love,
And forever we remember you.
I believe that there is a banquet now in heaven as our Father is proudly welcoming his beloved son home. May you be proud of your beloved husband and your beloeved father as well.
Many prayers and much love,
Ying Xu
Bob Kraft said,
February 6, 2007 at 1:40 am
Grief, with Light
It grieves me to hear of Al’s passing,
A friend and colleague true;
‘Though I saw him rarely in recent years
Others made sure that I knew
Of this heartbreaking illness
That has torn him away
From those he loved and served –
Always with hope that he could stay
Longer yet, for another day.
Too young, he is gone;
We are left to grieve
And move on as he would wish
May his memory stay
As his loved ones pray
And his life shines to lighten the way.
Bob Kraft, 5 February 2007
Dennis Billy said,
February 6, 2007 at 2:36 am
“Precious in the eyes of the Lord
is the death of his faithful ones.
O Lord, I am your servant,
the son of your handmaid;
you have loosed my bonds.”
Psalm 116:15-16
Sebastian Heck said,
February 6, 2007 at 2:51 am
Dear Libbie and family,
oh how sweet the sound of the Lord’s amazing grace in your life! How sweet his providential dealings with all of you! How kind his timing! How unsearchable his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!
Though the memories of Al are few, they are exquisite and deep! What a marvelous testimony of God’s love!
I am, even now, “sorrowful, yet rejoicing” (2Cor 6:10) together with you.
Sebastian Heck (Germany)
Eep & Arendjan Talstra said,
February 6, 2007 at 3:08 am
Dear Libbie and family,
Together we cried this morning for our good friend and also together
we are joyful that Alan is being welcomed now in God´s merciful eternity.
We think of Alan joining Lies in the choir, or, as Lies always said: riding a golden bike on the streets of the holy city.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you,
Eep & Arendjan, Harmen and Inge
Harmen Talstra said,
February 6, 2007 at 3:11 am
Dear Groves Family, my dearest friends,
There is something I MUST say. May I BEG you something? Please, give ROOM to the grief and the loss and the mourning that you experience! Death is ugly. Death is not beautiful. It should not be there at all. Over the last two days I read every word on this weblog, and the whole movie of last year started rolling again for my eyes. Death is crude, death is harsh, death is ruthless. Sure, God is kind and faithful and our poor dear Al is safe in his arms now, together with Lies and many others. (They will bike together on heavenly Terschelling, so they are probably quite okay.) That is a comfort, to be sure. I share the peace about this glorious fact, a peace that God gave to you. But in any other way, death is a disaster. I beg you. Please, do not drown your genuine grief by too many Bible passages and pious hallelujah’s (which ought to be there as well, of course…). Please dare to cry out: “Why?”. Why did all this happen? For heaven’s sake, IT JUST ISN’T FAIR !!! If you do so, you are not alone in that opinion. Jesus wept too (John 11:35). And He knows what to do about it, after all. He will renew and restore all things, and will utterly destroy death, His enemy that makes Him so angry. That is a promise that we may yearn for. But for now, the loss will be no lesser. Please give room to your grief about the loss of the greatest man, husband and dad of all Philly and surrounding counties (quoting Eep). God can be met in mourning too. I mourn along with you and I send you a lot of loving hugs for you all, also on behalf of Inge!
Harmen, 5 Feb 2007
Bill Snodgrass said,
February 6, 2007 at 3:34 am
Dear family of our precious friend and brother in Christ, Al Groves,
Well, as I am sure Harmen knows, you will grieve in the proper time, as the Lord leads. This too is what it means to have a Good Shepherd. Here are some verses that I shared with Al a few years ago. He commented that they comforted him. The Lord has helped me through them too. May the Lord lead you to them in his time. You are in our prayers, all of you.
Matthew 12:18-21 (ESV)
“Behold, my servant whom I have chosen,
my beloved with whom my soul is well pleased.
I will put my Spirit upon him,
and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.
[19] He will not quarrel or cry aloud,
nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets;
[20] a bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not quench,
until he brings justice to victory;
[21] and in his name the Gentiles will hope.”
In Christ, the name that brings hope to those Gentiles who are now part of true Israel,
Bill Snodgrass
Mabel & Phillip Hui said,
February 6, 2007 at 3:47 am
Dear Libby and family,
We are praying for you all. Yes, we rejoice with you knowing that Al is now in the glorious presence of our Lord. We also had our memorial/worship service for our daughter Mary Hing-Sung Hui yesterday, and now she and Al are singing God’s praise together in heaven. God has added two more to his glorious kingdom!
We pray that God’s peace and comfort will pour over you and your family as you mourn his physical loss.
A song that has comforted Mabel and I these past couple of weeks is:
In Christ Alone
1. In Christ alone my hope is found,
He is my light, my strength, my song;
This corner stone, this solid ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What height of love, what depth of peace,
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My comforter, my all in all,
Here in the love of Christ I stand.
2. In Christ alone—who took on flesh,
Full of God in helpless babe.
This gift of love and righteousness,
Scorned by the one He came to save.
Till on that cross, as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied;
For every sin on Him was laid.
Here in the death of Christ I live.
3. There in the ground His body lay,
Light of the world by darkness slain;
Then bursting forth in glorious day
Up from the grave He rose again!
And as He stands in victory
Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me,
For I am His and He is mine—
Brought with the precious blood of Christ.
4. No guilt in life, no fear in death,
This is the power of Christ in me;
From life’s first cry to final breath,
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home,
Here In the power of Christ I’ll stand!
May you and your family find comfort and Hope in the loving arms of Christ our savior.
Praying for you!
In His Love,
Phillip & Mabel Hui
Mike Kreft said,
February 6, 2007 at 4:20 am
Libbie, Alasdair, Lauren, Becky, Eowyn, and Alden
In the midst of loss, it has been wonderful seeing the Spirit strengthening you in your faith - faith being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Most of us knew Al because he was the academic. Your lives have been molded by him as the family man, through so many stages. Yet we have all been blessed, and loved him, because he was first and foremost the pastor, equipping saints for the work of ministry. A true friend indeed. As John Y said, the world is poorer; yet it has been made richer through this blog. In an age that generally doesn’t know how to die strongly, thank you all for sharing and giving us this resource.
We rejoice in tears with you (and close friends and family), as Al enjoys the fullness of his adoption.
Mike & Jan Kreft, Exeter UK
Barbara Finlay said,
February 6, 2007 at 4:40 am
Dear Libbie,
We rejoice and grieve with you and the children, thank you for your email which was so filled with the spirit of joy that it brought home yet again the great God we have and the great hope we have in Him. You have continually shown us the power, love and faithfullness of God over this difficult journey and it has been such an encouragement and blessing to have been on this journey with you.
You are all very much in our prayers for the days ahead, praise God those days are in His Hands.
Thank you for all you and Al have taught us, our lives have been so enriched spiritually because of your lively and dedicated witness at every stage of Al’s illness.
with much continued prayer and love
Barbara
Yao Hing Wong said,
February 6, 2007 at 5:02 am
Dear Libbie, Alasdair, Lauren, Becky, Eowyn, and Alden,
We mourn with you at this moment. Yet, we mourn not as people without hope, for we are comforted in knowing that Professor Groves is now with the Lord, joining the rest of the saints who have passed before us in worshiping our awesome God, and adoring our Lord Jesus Christ face-to-face.
We love you.
In His Love,
Yao Hing Wong &
the Westminster Chinese Student community
Nigel and Caroline Atkinson said,
February 6, 2007 at 5:35 am
Dear Libbie
We first met Al after we were married at 23 years of age in September of 1984. We were married in England in June and we both came over to WTS that August with barely a penny to our name. Looking back now I can see that we were both a bit overwhelmed by the USA, by WTS, by the need for Caroline to find a job to pay the rent, by a new education system, by our marriage and by Hebrew (!!). As the term (semester!) wore on and as we got into January Hebrew (does that torture session still happen?!!) I became aware of this very soft spoken, very patient, calm and deeply godly man whoe love of Jesus was palpable. Panicking before tests and exams I used to phone Al up the night before so that he could expalin the intricacies of segholate nouns and he always (it appeared) had acres of time to stop whatever he was doing to spend time with a young, if dim, student. In due course Caroline and I came along to the Film Club nights in your home and these were some of the highlights of our time at WTS. We still look back on those evenings and we remember the discussions we all had. We were welcomed and made to feel at home and loved and cared for and generally jollied along. We weep with you now that he has gone and we as a church here in Knutsford shall be praying for you and yours over the coming weeks. But we are truly rejoicing that Al lived and died beleiving in the Communion of Saints, the forgiveness of sins, and the ressurection to life everlasting. Al has now entered that Kingdom prepared for him from the begining of the world. To God be the Glory great things he has done. With love Nigel and Caroline.
Gerard Norton said,
February 6, 2007 at 5:41 am
I was sad to hear the news, but as ever, was uplifted by your courage Libbie and and that of all your family. God bless you now and in the times to come. Al is a great man and in the Father’s house he will be watching over you.
Gerard Norton
Bo Ljungberg said,
February 6, 2007 at 5:53 am
Dear Libbie, Alasdair, Lauren, Becky, Eowyn, and Alden,
Thank you for your wonderful testimony! Truly, we mourn, but not as the world.
These past weeks I have been reminded of my times with Al - as one of his international academic buddies, yet on a personal level; typically he soon decipherd my Swedish nickname - it’s been like mini-videos playing, and in the light of this blog, I have been able to see, read, those encounters in a truer light of how he really was; and all that makes even more sense.
Your husband/father/father-in-law was a deceptively simple person, as is probably the case with most great men.
I am so thankful to have known Al, and to have been numbered among his friends. He made my life richer.
Thank you for letting us know of Al’s triumphant entry into heaven.
Please do consider sharing this blog in another format when that day comes, for God’s glory, as a tribute to Al, and as help to many others.
May the Spirit help me to uphold you before the Throne in days to come!
Bosse
Kyuboem Lee said,
February 6, 2007 at 6:06 am
We praise the Lord for the joy and peace that he has granted you the family, and most of all the everlasting joy and peace that all believers here yearn for that has been granted Al. We join in the praise with you, and we sorrow with you. Al will be dearly missed; but how wonderful it must be for him right now to be with his Dearest and Best.
We are praying for much comfort and strength for the family–it looks as though that the Lord has already supplied that plentifully through your great faith in the gospel, and we are glad.
You have been such a testimony to God’s grace for the rest of us through your trials. Thank you.
For the Lee family,
Kyuboem
Tom Kulp said,
February 6, 2007 at 6:20 am
I can’t wait to see him again!!!!!!!
Tom
Kathy Dirksen said,
February 6, 2007 at 6:27 am
I woke up this morning thinking of you all. and thinking of Al. At first I was sad for you all and for me and for everyone who knew him, but then I just keep thinking of him in Heaven, without pain, and with others that I love and just being overwhelmed with gratitude for a God who loves us and wants us with him, when our work on earth is done. So glad he is no longer in pain, but vibrant and more healthy than he has ever been. And we will see him again! Life on this earth is truly a shadow. The real and best is to come! I continue to vassilate between the two emotions, and reading how you rejoiced at the time of his death, was so encouraging and a clear picture of God’s blessing to you in the hardest of times. He will never leave or forsake, and he will lift you up even as you miss Al’s sweet and loving presence in the days and years to come. I can’t think of my dad now without thinking of him with his hands in a permanently raised position to Jesus, unless, he is shaking hands and hugging new-comers.
Continuing to pray…
Love,
Kathy
Gideon Teo said,
February 6, 2007 at 6:29 am
My heart grives and rejoices with you. And yes, we will see him again.
Come Lord Jesus!
Gideon Teo
Rita said,
February 6, 2007 at 6:57 am
Thank you so much for sharing this so intimately with us. It has been an unbelievable testimony of God’s love and mercy. I wish I could express myself in writing so well as you Libbie, but I cannot. I keep you all in my prayers and thoughs.
Love you all,
Rita
Elaine Gilbert said,
February 6, 2007 at 6:58 am
The memorial of Al is Jesus Christ, the Living One! What a Place to visit all memories of the things Al treasured - Jesus Is all of it.
Loving the Lord God with all of you,
Elaine
Eli White said,
February 6, 2007 at 7:02 am
I am happy to hear that Al passed in peace and that you all feal so much better knowing that he is in heaven. I am still praying for you.
Eli
Jenny said,
February 6, 2007 at 7:20 am
Our Father in Heaven allowed you to give Al the best homegoing party I can imagine. Then from there Al stepped in to a greater joy unmeasurable. You can almost see him stepping in to the multitude of saints who have gone before him rejoicing and singing. In my minds eye it’s like stepping in to a football stadium and everyone is cheering both in praise of the Lord and that Al has come home. What a picture of grace.
I know you are joyous and sorrowful all rolled in to one. Jesus, your friend, understands and sees your joy and sorrow and will bring you comfort that none of us can. He was with you in the room with Al and He will remain with you now and always.
We will NOT cease in praying.
We love you all deeply,
Jenny
Tammy said,
February 6, 2007 at 7:27 am
My mom’s passing away was under similar circumstances, we were all by her bedside. We knew she was close to leaving us and for 17 hours we kept a constant bedside vigil. We, too, prayed, talked to her, told stories and put on her gospel CD’s. She passed away during her favorite gospel song.
I admire your ability to see Al’s passing as a relief from his pain and suffering and a wonderful adventure in meeting his Lord. It took me a long time to feel that way about losing my mom and I still struggle with it.
While this time in my life has indeed helped me to grow closer to the Lord my first reaction was anger and bitterness rather than rejoicing. I read your post and all the feelings and experiences of that day come back to me and again I feel the unfairness of it. I know that’s a selfish feeling~to want my mother here with me rather than for her to be in the company of the Lord out of pain and surrounded by the loved ones that went before her.
Thank you for giving me strength through your experience. I will keep your family in my prayers.
Lisa Heerdt said,
February 6, 2007 at 7:30 am
O Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight, and the clouds be rolled back as a scroll, the trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend, Even so it is well with my soul.
We rejoice that Al’s faith is now sight and look forward to the time we are all there.
The Heerdts
Phil Arant said,
February 6, 2007 at 7:32 am
Libby,
I will be praying for you and your family as they adjust. We are all, in a way, envious of Al, going ahead of us as he has. Our day will come. It will be glorious to see the Lord.
Much love,
Phil Arant
Bob Weiler said,
February 6, 2007 at 7:35 am
Our prayers continue on for your Family,
The Weilers
Bob, Myriam, Caleb and Eliana
Chris Kennedy said,
February 6, 2007 at 7:52 am
Libby and family,
Here in Belfast, we’ve been praying for you all, and will continue to commit your ways to the Lord, that our loving shepherd will lead you in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Though we were only with you a short time we remember the Groves ‘mini’ church with great fondness, not least because of the words Al said to me when talking about it - “We believe in the covenant family” - and you guys have been a wonderful testimony to that truth.
The Kennedys
Chris, Sallie & Sam
Steve Kim said,
February 6, 2007 at 7:59 am
We too cried and rejoiced in the Lord for Al. We will continue to pray to our God who gives comfort for you and family.
Love
Steve and Jenny
JOHN GROVES said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:00 am
Libbie, I called my Dad this morning and we are saddened by the loss yet overjoyed for the completion of his faithful journey. I can imagine Al running, actually running into the arms of Jesus, with that huge grin on his shining face. What a joy! We will continue our prayers for strength and peace and most of all comfort.
With great love,
John and Family
Chris Fisher said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:01 am
Dear Libbie and kids, you all have an angel in heaven and what a send-off you gave him. A lovely story. No more pain, no more sorrow !
Love and prayers to all. He is resting in peace with his Lord.
Hugs, Chris
Malissa Files said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:11 am
Eloquent words fail me. I am praying for you all.
Wayne and Arline said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:16 am
What a beautiful journey to God. Our love and prayers are with you all.
Hannah Lane said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:19 am
What an amazing, encouraging entry. I am so relieved knowing such a great man as Al Groves is seeing the face of our Lord now. And like you said, I am even envious! Your family continues to stay in my thoughts & prayers. I love you all so much and your whole family has been such an encouragement and a blessing to me throughout these past few years. God bless. :]
Love,
Hannah
David O'Leary said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:25 am
Dear Libbie and family,
We shed tears with you, Tears of joy, tears of sadness, tears of hope in the Lord. We thank God for the way he glorified himself in Al’s life.
Blessings on you
David and Debbie
Hilary Kratz said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:35 am
Dear Libbie,
Our family decided to come to New Life @ 2 years ago now. Seeing you and Al, looking just like you did 26 years ago,
at Christ Church in Oreland, was such a strong confirmation that we were supposed to be there.
I was wanting to get to know you as grown ups, but Al’s illness…
Yet, reading through all these loving comments, is probably the best way for anyone to get to know you and Al.
What an amazing couple you became!
What charming children you are raising!
What faithful friends you have.
Jonathan and I are sad that Al died. But so glad he is with the Lord.
I love you Libbie, please feel free to let me know if you need anything.
In Christ, Hilary
Peter Radford said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:35 am
From all of us at Calvary Baptist Seminary in Lansdale, and especially from the three of us who had the great pleasure of studying with Al, our heart-felt sympathies are with you. We will always remember Al as a choice servant of Christ, whose love for the Savior showed in everything he did.
With Love,
Peter Radford
Phil Monroe said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:36 am
Dear Groves family,
Thank you for sharing so much of your heartache, faith, and joy with us these many months. We will continue to pray for you all, especially in the coming days.
Phil
Barbara and Zach Aills said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:46 am
Dear Libbie,
You and your family have shown the church and the watching world how to live well in the midst of deepest difficulty. Al has shown us how to die well…bringing stunning glory to our Lord. You have welcomed us all into your home, your hearts and your very lives through this blog and we are grateful. What a privilege it’s been to walk through this trial with you and see the glory God gets when his children trust and obey him. Libbie, thank you for your most gracious hospitality. We love you.
Barbara and Zach Aills
Grace Kang said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:51 am
Dear Libby,
My heart goes out to you and your family.
Professor Al was such an inspiration to me and I was personally changed and touched by the way he walked with the Lord.
I’ll miss him very much.
The Goods said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:53 am
It was God’s timing, wasn’t it. I am so glad God does not ask us how or when we are to go, but we need to trust that He will do it in the best way.
We are continuing to pray for each of you…I hope that we can be a part of God’s plan to “exquisitely” care for you.
Love,
Grace for us all
Nancy McCaffrey said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:53 am
Dear Libby and dear family,
I prayed many times during the day and night for all of you. I am again amazed at God’s grace in this hardest of experiences.
I lost my Dad three years ago and I know most of the feelings you will all experience. Let the Lord and your many friends and family minister to you. We all long to comfort you and rejoice with you that Al is at the wedding feast right now!! I can’t wait until we see Jesus and to see the many houses He has prepared for us. What do you think - does Al reside in a huge castle or merely a condo? Whatever it is I know that it was perfectly planned by God.
The tears are flowing now, but as you all know, there will be a time when there will be no more tears or fear or sadness. I rejoice that Al is experiencing that now in his rightful home.
Much love to you all,
Nancy
Marilyn Morton said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:14 am
Dear Libbie and family,
I stand in awe of the mystery: Christ has died, Christ has risen, Christ will come again!
It’s like Al to “go before.” He and all of you have surely shown the rest of us the way.
My most joyful thought at the moment? Imagine the reunion with Horace Evans! Two such wonderful saints of God, together again.
With much love,
Marilyn
George Oommen said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:19 am
Praise God for Professor Al Groves life and testimony.
He fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith. Now there is in store for him the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to him on that day - and not only to him, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. (2 Tim 4:7-8)
Love and prayers,
George
Shannon Geiger said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:24 am
I’ve told my children that my teacher from school who we’ve been praying for died and went to be with Jesus. My 5-year-old son, said, “Well, now he gets a new name!” and my 3-year-old daughter said, “Yeah, maybe it’s, PICKLES!” and Silas, my son said, “No, Sophie, maybe it’s “Mr. Pickles!”
We’ve been so richly blessed by your lives and stories both at Westminster and on the blog. Thank you for loving and caring for us in this way. It’s been such a holy privelege to be included in this way.
Much love and continued prayer,
Shannon and Josh
Esther said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:26 am
Libbie and family,
My mom called me early this morning with the news.
As I was dropping my two and a half year old daughter off at preschool this morning, I was calculating in my head how old ‘the kids’ are now. Becky, was just Abby’s age when I started babysitting her and Alasdair was only a few years older. And, as I’m 8 mos pregnant right now, I am continually reminded of Eowyn’s birth - oh to be as calm as you were Libbie!!
Though it has been years since I have seen you all, your family is often in my thoughts. You and Al were so formative in my life both by encouraging my personality and talents, as well as being a part of the extended family that taught me how to live out my faith with ease and confidence. And here you are teaching still with this amazing blog.
I’m sorry to hear today’s news - and yet so encouraged by it and the witness this blog gives to the reality of our beliefs. Jesus is real. Heaven is real. And we will see Al again! Thank you for doing this.
Esther (Lawrence) Baird
Meenu Hoffman said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:27 am
Dear Groves Family,
what a priviledge it has been to follow your journey the past year. Al’s death was indeed a good one. I want to die the way Al did, loving God no matter what and growing closer to Him no matter the pain and circumstances. The way you all handled Al’s cancer was a testimony to our faithful God. Al did not waste his cancer! Thank you for giving me a more real picture of Christian death and life eternal. Al is now in paradise.
Now, as Christians, we need to continue to pray for those inflicted with cancer and other illnesses who do not know the joy of the Lord. Theirs is not a good death.
Love,
Meenu
Karin said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:28 am
What Al must be experiencing now. What a hope we have! What a mighty God we serve. No wonder angels bow before Him and heaven and earth adore Him.
Lauren Viss said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:38 am
I’m at a loss for words. I’m praying for God’s deep comfort. You are loved.
Pam Sezov said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:43 am
I can see Al, Ben and Ron together and praising the Lord! What a joyful picture!
Bruce and I will continue to pray for your peace, rest and comfort in the days ahead.
Love,
Pam
Holly said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:48 am
Last night, we read of Al’s finishing his race, and wept–and we thank you for the joyous picture of God’s grace and hope that you have shared. Praise the Lord! We rejoice in the hope he has given you and to all who are in Christ. We continue to pray.
Holly and Jesse Covington
Christof Hardmeier said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:50 am
Dear Libbie, dear family and children of Alan,
A long way of suffering as well as of trusting hope has been coming to its end. I am very affected and sadly missed by Alan`s going home. Ursula and I, we are remembering the happy times we spent together with Alan and you in your home at Philadelphia or in our surroundings at Bethel, Greifswald, Tuebingen, Amsterdam and elsewere. Alan was always a so fine fellow and touching friend, a deeply godly man.
It is true, what Saint Paul says, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom 8:38-39). Thus we are meeting God also in the depth of grief about the loss of Alan. In this certainty and belief, I hope, you will find comfort and consolation in the coming weeks together with your friends by giving room to your grief without loosing your souls in the sadness at Alan`s death.
We mourn with you and wish you God`s blessing in the times to come
Christof and Ursula Hardmeier
Greifswald, Germany
Stacey Armstrong said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:53 am
Matthew and I weep tears of joy mixed with sorrow as we read of Al’s homecoming. Know that our prayers are lifted for you, Libby, and the family.
Matthew and Stacey Armstrong
JP Hagerty said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:53 am
I am so happy to hear that he is not suffering any more, Al lived a great and very faithful life
Alden- My prayers are with you. You can come to me anytime you want ill be here for you now and 15 years from now. You’ve been such a testimony to me and my family, Thank you
Blessed are those who morn, for they will be comferted.
Mathew 5:4
im praying for you all!!!
J.P.
Mel & Justin Moore said,
February 6, 2007 at 10:17 am
your testimony through this difficult path has been a blessing to us. we will miss Al and look forward to seeing him again, in a place where there will be no more tears.
Libby, we will lift you and your family up in prayer as we rejoice that Al is home. we hope to be at the memorial service.
blessings,
mel and justin
Sue Mallin said,
February 6, 2007 at 10:18 am
Dying with power. Well done!!!
Susan Fogg said,
February 6, 2007 at 10:21 am
Libbie,
Weeping and rejoicing. All other words fail me.
Praying and knowing you feel the comforting, enveloping arms of Jesus around you and your family.
Susan Fogg
Kent Morton said,
February 6, 2007 at 10:33 am
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die….a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance…” (Eccl 3) It’s the last part I’m thinking about particularly — that now is Al’s time to dance before the throne of grace. The Lord will wipe every tear from his eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain… Hallelujah!
May the Lord pour fresh strength and grace into your innermost beings in the days ahead.
Sue Baker said,
February 6, 2007 at 10:45 am
My prayers are with you and your family, but I feel you have given me so much more from the beauty penned in this blog than I could ever give back to you. The depth of your love and trust in the Lord during what would normally be viewed as such a devastating time buttresses my own faith. Over the last few days my prayer has been one of thanks to the Lord for allowing me to know His humble and gracious servant, Al, and I do rejoice with you that he is now pain free and totally healthy in the presence of our Savior.
Jessie Bible said,
February 6, 2007 at 10:50 am
Dear Libbie,
I rejoice with you in God’s unfailing goodness.
Praise God for the victory in Christ Jesus. Where, O Death, is now thy sting!
May God enfold you with great comfort in days ahead.
Jessie Bible
Roger and Karen Clark said,
February 6, 2007 at 10:56 am
Dear Libbie and Alasdair, Lauren, Becky, Eowyn and Alden,
Thank you, Libbie, that you and Al have loved us enough to share with us the good, bad and the ugly of Al’s battle with cancer. As we have all cried and laughed and prayed with you–in person or via the blogs–we together have heard God’s words: “These [sufferings, griefs and trials] have come so that your faith–of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire–may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” (1Pet. 1:6,7)
Thank you, Libbie, that you and Al and your family have shown us what it looks like to rejoice in our sufferings. We have all been witnesses to and partakers in that mysterious working of God in which “suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
Thank you, Jesus, for this great day of rejoicing at Al’s arrival Home. And we also trust the One in whom we put our hope to lead us as well, and to welcome us at the gate. And . . . who’s that man over there in an Eagle’s jersey, jumping up and down and waving his hands at us? Why, it’s our cheerleader Al who, along with Ron and Ben and the rest of the cloud of witnesses, has been rooting us on for years and now can’t wait to show us the streets of gold .
Thank you, Jesus.
Love, Roger and Karen
Matthew Paul Buccheri said,
February 6, 2007 at 11:19 am
Libby and the fam,
Your unwavering faith (and faithfulness) through this time has done more for me (and others) than you can possibly imagine. The Groves family will remain in my (and Redeemer’s) prayers. As for Al, he made one thing perfectly clear to me in all that he said, all that he taught and all that he lived: Jesus Christ the Lord to the glory of God the Father!
Scott Moran said,
February 6, 2007 at 11:35 am
I will never forget the way Al taught the Old Testament with such wonder and awe. He truly was a pastor and teacher to his students.
Thank you to the Groves for opening up your lives through this blog so that we can rejoice and weep with you. May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Scott and Laine Moran
Andrew L. Yenchko said,
February 6, 2007 at 11:35 am
The prayers of…well, I can account for 50 people here at GCC are with your family…but also the praises to God that his servant is no longer suffering…even as a child, I could see he was a man who lived his faith…filled with the fruits of the spirit…it’s a beautiful thing.
Yea when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease.
We shall possess within the veil,
A life of Joy and Peace
Barry Noll said,
February 6, 2007 at 11:43 am
Dear Libbie, Alasdair, Lauren, Becky, Eowyn, and Alden,
We regret to hear of the loss of the loss of your husband, father, and friend. We also regret losing a great professor, visionary, friend and living example of Jesus on earth! We grieve with you all knowing that we “. . .grieve as those who have hope.”(1 Thessalonians 4:13-14). We regret not being able to be there to grieve with you. We now know that Al knows in fullness what he fatithfully taught from the Hebrew Scriptures (Luke 24:44-47). I still remember the words spoken at Chip Stonehouse’s funeral which apply to Al, “You cannot die like this unless you live like this!” We are so thankful for his life and testimony and the legacy that he leaves behind; namely his wife and children. We will keep you in our prayers.
Love,
The Noll’s
George & Janet Lawrence said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:00 pm
Libby and family,
The Reformed grape vine works with astonishing speed so that years and miles are inconsequential. Janet and I learned of Al’s home-going earlier this morning with an impact so undiminished that it seemed as if we had been there with you all these years.
Philly is still our “home,” the place where Esther was raised and where Janet and I came of age as adult believers. You and Al were right in the middle of it all. The discussions we had, the lessons we learned as we confronted the decisions of life together as fellow believers, the picnics, the Bible studies, the weeks at Harvey Cedars; they have all been profoundly formative. You and Al are ingrained in our lives. Ideas and memories that you and Al implanted surface frequently. As our granddaughter got dressed in her “princess” bathing suit this past December, some synapse was triggered, and I grinned as I remembered your kids dressing up from your props collection to act out the story of Jacob, Rachel and Leah while the rest of us wondered just how they would interpret the subterfuge that was perpetrated. What a great and typical Al and Libby memory.
Libby, we are comforted, as you are, in the sure knowledge that Al’s suffering is over and that this separation is temporary. Yet, Janet and I grieve at your loss of such a godly husband, father and co-worker. You two were such a perfect fit, such a great example of two becoming one. Our prayers are with you.
George and Janet Lawrence
Dawn said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:20 pm
About a week ago, Emma (our 5 year old who has been praying for Al for the past year) said ,”Mommy, does Professor Groves still have that bad stuff in him.” And I said “Yes, Emma Professor Groves is very sick still.” She said to me rather impatiently, “When is God going to make him better!?’ I was happy to report to her last night before bed that God had answered her prayers at last-All the Bad Stuff is gone and Al is enjoying a new body and
a new heart!
We grieve with you over our loss of Father, Brother , Teacher and Friend and rejoice with you for Al’s great gain, to be with Him and be like Him as he sees Him face to face.
Much love and continued prayers, Dawn, Adrian, and Emma
Richard & Shirley Bellinger said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:42 pm
You don’t know us (we met one time in the church parking lot while visiting Todd & Joanna) but ever since Todd told us about Al’s illness we have been praying for you. Todd sent me the link to your blog yesterday and I read it with tears and yet joy, What an example you all are. Praying God will keep his arms wrapped around you and that you can hold on to the joy in the midst of the pain and loneliness that will probably come. God Bless and keep you all. Hoping to see you again some day.
With prayers from Virginia,
Richard & Shirley Bellinger
Ondrej and Milina Franka said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:44 pm
Dear Libby and family,
We rejoice with you in homecoming of Al! Yet, at the same time we cry with you at this great loss to you but heavens gain.
For all of us who were fortunate and blessed to know Al, his selfless life and service is a great leagcy for us to follow. May we have grace to do it for God’s glory as Al did.
Receive our condolence and prayers,
Ondrej and Milina Franka
Serbia
Christian Cryder said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:46 pm
Hey Libbie, just wanted to say thanks one more time for your openness throughout this process.
We heard the news last night, and paused for a few minutes to pray as a family for all of you. I had always known that Al had made a big difference for me at WTS, but I didn’t realize how much of an impact he had on my kids as well (they used to sit through classes w/ me from time to time). It was a sweet occasion to listen to them talk to God last night, to see them feeling the weight but also the joy, and to know that even in death, you and Al continue to teach us.
Thank you so much. We will continue to pray for you all during this time of transition, and we rejoice in our saviour who makes it possible to face death this way.
Love in Christ, the Missoula Cryders (Christian, Marilyn, Malachi, Micah, and Rebekah)
Laura Henrich said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:53 pm
Praying for you, and worshiping with you.
“Blessed be the Lord who daily bears us up;
God is our salvation.
Our God is a God of salvation,
and to God, the Lord, belong deliverances from death.”
Ps. 68:19-20
Alex Burgess said,
February 6, 2007 at 12:59 pm
Al-
You’re a man we can’t forget. Not that we’d ever want to. See you on the other side.
Yours in our Redeemer who brings us from death to life,
Alex
P.S. My wife and I still talk about those film nights at your house. Good memories.
Chris Simmons said,
February 6, 2007 at 1:05 pm
Libbie,
It has been a very long time since eternity has felt so present. The Lord has drawn so much glory out of your and Al’s lives and the lives of the children. I know Christ takes so much pleasure in you here and in Al there. May He richly pour out his comfort upon all of you.
With much love,
Chris
lisa hildebrand said,
February 6, 2007 at 1:06 pm
Words fail me now, but thank you, Libbie and family, how you have inspired me in so many ways, through AL’s illness. I am glad he is with Jesus.
Ryan and Rachel Sutherland said,
February 6, 2007 at 1:06 pm
We prayed for you last night with the Cryders and Terry when we heard the news. We are rejoicing with you in Al’s new, perfect body. We will continue to pray for your family.
Love,
The Sutherlands
Steven Vela said,
February 6, 2007 at 1:07 pm
Thank the Lord for Al to finally be out of pain! What a great transition to heaven. Just want to let you know that I am still praying for you and I was thinking of you and your family about this.
God Bless
TK Chen said,
February 6, 2007 at 1:10 pm
As a new student to WTS, I have only met Professor Groves through his published works. From my secondary experiences, I sensed his deep commitment to God and a love for his students to learn, experience and communicate God’s truth and love to others. I know that God had given you all the perfect man/husband/father to enjoy “firsthand.” We give thanks to God for bringing such godly persons into our midst, as an expression and extension of our heavenly Father’s love—a love that endures forever. Our God is enjoying Professor Groves’ presence and giving him eternal joy and rest. I wish you all God’s enduring peace. Sincerely in Christ, TK Chen
Sarah-Jane said,
February 6, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Dear Libbie and all the family,
Praying in London for you now in your sadness and your joy. It was an immense privilege to know Al in the classroom, and to learn so much from him about language, about Scripture, and above all about Jesus. But the privilege of praying beside you through these past months, and the amount that you have all taught us through it, has been of a different order altogether. Thanking God for Al and for all of you, and prayng that you will continue to know his closeness and his comfort in the days to come,
Sarah-Jane
Munther Isaac said,
February 6, 2007 at 2:17 pm
Thank you for sharing these last moments with us! In his life and in his death Al touched my life in various ways. I appreciate and am proud to have been taught by him. The thing I savor the most about Al is his humility and closeness to us as students. I will never forget the fact that even in his sickness he came to see the Bethlehem Bible College when we sang in New Life. He told me he was longing to be home, and he is home now for sure.
Recently I was struggling to make sence of death (many deaths and sickness in my circle). In your blog you said that Al is free from death now! AMEN to that! Thank you Jesus for raising from the death.
My prayers are with you.
Munther Isaac
Moses Wong said,
February 6, 2007 at 2:17 pm
Dear Libbie and all the family,
It’s my privilege that Prof Groves was my mentor and professor for all these years. We mourn and rejoice together with your family.
“Death is swallowed up in victory.
O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
(1 Cor 15:54-57)
Take care,
Moses, Eunice and Clement
Tim Eimer said,
February 6, 2007 at 2:24 pm
Dear Groves family,
You do not know me; my name is Tim Eimer. Although I teach at PMCA, I met Al, oddly enough, at Ballys gym, and we became friends. I am battling an incurable form of cancer, and Al and I have talked together about our conditions, and we have been praying for one another. I recieved some bad news yesterday so my future on earth is uncertain, but your website has encouraged me and my wife as I prepare to walk down the same path Al has been tredded upon these past months. I will continue to uphold your family in prayer as I have been, and I rejoice that though we don’t know each other, we can share the same hope and joy.
Lord willing, I will be at the service on Saturday.
May God bless you and keep you.
Tim
Libby Hunt said,
February 6, 2007 at 2:32 pm
Dear Groves Family,
It’s very hard to be so far from you all when we want to rejoice and mourn with you, but please know that there are many at Dartmouth who are both weeping and rejoicing with you (the paradox of God!). We love you so very much. Thank you for letting us share in such an intimate way.
Love,
Libby and Ben Hunt
JoAnn Stracuzzi said,
February 6, 2007 at 2:43 pm
“Where your treasure is there your heart will be also.”
Heaven is now closer for us all.
We love you,
JoAnn for Ken,Lauren,Kenny,Ashley and Ava
Tammy Kulp said,
February 6, 2007 at 2:46 pm
Dear Libbie and family,
Your family and Al have been a testimony of faith and a picture of Jesus walking on earth to me. Thank you for showing me how to walk down the road of suffering blessing Jesus’ name every step of the way! What joy and peace it brings to know that Al is in heaven with no more pain and walking side by side with Jesus. You and your family are in my prayers.
Love,
Tammy
Matthew Stephan said,
February 6, 2007 at 2:51 pm
Dear Libbie and family,
I am thankful that Prof. Groves is now present with our Lord. I am deeply indebted to him and our Lord for the times I was privileged to spend with him studying the scriptures. Prof. Groves has left a mark on my soul not only by the knowledge he imparted in his classes but by the way he led us into the scriptures. I am grateful to him and to God for his character, godliness, and reverence that came across as he taught us the scriptures. I was thankful that I took some of the last classes that he taught with him and that he did the ceremony when I graduated. He will be dearly missed.
Matt
Linda Blakeman said,
February 6, 2007 at 3:03 pm
Dear Libbie, Alasdair (and Lauren), Becky, Eowyn, and Alden,
Alan knew how to love well. And because of that, we all miss him terribly. Yesterday something huge happened to our world as we know it. I don’t know about you right now, but I want the whole world to stop for a moment to take note that Alan Groves is no longer with us. Even at a distance, things don’t seem right without him. But, in due time, God will work it out for us all. I’ll keep praying to that end.
Huge hugs to you all.
“Blessings”,
Linda
Steve Dempster said,
February 6, 2007 at 3:19 pm
Dear Libbie and Family,
I had known AL briefly from mutual interests in the Hebrew language. I only met him in Philadelphia 2005. We had lunch at the SBL and he spent 3 hours with me talking about Hebrew grammar. He was entirely selfless. I read the news and rejoice that he is with our Lord and Saviour but am also aware of the deep hole that is there with his loss. May God surround you with his grace and mercy during this time.
Blessings!
Shalom,
Steve Dempster
Jeff and Nina said,
February 6, 2007 at 3:47 pm
Dear Libbie and family,
We so wish we were there to grieve with you, and to remember and rejoice as well. We are so thankful to have had the privilege to be students of and co-laborers with Al. God has taught us so much through him (and through all of you) that we know God will use to bring fruit in North Africa. Oh the stories that will be told some day when we are all together again in heaven.
With much love,
Jeff and Nina
molli ferrarello said,
February 6, 2007 at 3:55 pm
Dear Groves Family,
I have always admired your truely beautiful family as a family filled with such joy that can come only from the Lord. The way you wrote about Mr.Groves is wonderful, I think that is just the way God would want you to respond to this situation and I continue to admire this beautiful family. May God bless all of you.
The prayers will not stop,
Molli Ferrarello
Devin said,
February 6, 2007 at 4:59 pm
Dear Libbie and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. The times that we had with Al will always be treasured. His life and yours have been a sweet testimony to the glory of our Lord especially in this time of trial. Al will be greatly missed and we will mourn his loss, but we rejoice alongside you knowing that his pain has ended and that he is with our Lord. May the Lord bless you and keep you…
Devin and Becki (Luedde) Whetsel
Janine Mitchell said,
February 6, 2007 at 5:49 pm
Dearest Libby, Alasdair, Lauren, Becky, Eowyn and Alden,
I breathe a sigh of relief that Al is now with the Lord. I continue to pray for all of you daily. Reading all the responses just astounds me!! What a cloud of witnesses and a testimony to Al’s faithfulness. I pray that even more people are touched as they read the testimonies of all of your faith, and that many will come to know Jesus as savior as a result. I love all of you very, very much!!!
Janine
Grant Evans III said,
February 6, 2007 at 5:54 pm
The Groves Family,
All of my prayers and thoughts are with you and Al this week. Al is truly a blessed man, and without a doubt is in the arms of Christ. I cannot find the words to tell you how glad I am to have known him in this life, and how much I look forward to meeting him again in God’s kingdom.
May God’s grace be with all of you.
Love, Grant Evans
Julie, Ally, Brittany said,
February 6, 2007 at 7:05 pm
Dear Alden and Family,
We are so sorry to hear about your dad. Our prayers are with you. You are an amzing family to be able to take this with some joy in your hearts. God bless you and your family.
Your Friends,
Julie Bacanskas, Ally Marshall, and Brittany Lloyd
Jin & Su Jin Chong said,
February 6, 2007 at 7:45 pm
Thank you Groves family for sharing your husband/father with us! We praise the Lord for touching our lives in and outside of class.
Bea Kratz said,
February 6, 2007 at 8:10 pm
Dear Groves family,
Even though Al is not with us anymore, he is with the LORD, and will be forever. God bless you all, and I’m still praying for you!!
Tony and Jessica Stiff said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:27 pm
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time. Thank you all for a wonderful living example of what it means to love the Lord and trust Him with that which you love most. We look forward to joining Al in praise before the Father of lights, until then you’re all a living memorial of Al’s wonderful character and witness. We are indebted to you for the priveledge its been beholding you worship the Lord through this season. May our Lord continue to give you peace and grace in Him,
Tony and Jess
Dennis & Shirley Bolton said,
February 6, 2007 at 9:59 pm
It’s so many years ago, 1982 in fact, that we were honoured and privileged to meet these special friends of Mike and Janice in Philadelphia. The memories you gave us have remained strong and precious over all this time and we have been kept in the picture about Al’s illness by them. So it was with sadness that we learned this evening of Al’s death but we, too rejoice with you that he is safe in the loving arms of Jesus.
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
Refrain
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
Refrain
His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.
Refrain
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.
Refrain
Stephanie Heinz and Family said,
February 6, 2007 at 10:32 pm
We send you our thoughts and our prayers. I am so sorry that we can not make it on Saturday but Stephanie would like to find some time to spend with Aleden when he can…if you need anything please let us know.
The Heinz Family, Stephanie is one of Aldens Classmates
Laura Kahn said,
February 6, 2007 at 10:47 pm
Libbie,
I have been reading your updates on the Hope Community weekly e-mails as you(and your family) have traveled the road of life to death to resurrection with your sweet husband AL.
My prayers are with you as you are celebrating his Homecoming… WOW!!! Years ago (as a nurse) I had the good fortune to see other Believers do the same kind of passing with loved ones near, Peace in the Spirit and Joy in their hearts-Incredible!! I celebrate with you sister.
God Blessed me by your example as a woman of Faith 16years ago when I first believed at woman’s Bible study and you were one of the women in my small group.I found you a shining star then- not because you are a remarkable human but because you are an amazing vessel-built to withstand the hardships that life can give out and still give our Lord all the Glory,Honor, and Praise He deserves!
Thank you for being one of my favorite Christian sister-mentors
God Bless you and Keep you always in his arms,and remember you can count on Him to provide for your Every need. He has done that for me in a Big way over the last year of my new life-divorced and single.
I can promise you there is no need to doubt Him -ever.
God Bless you and your family,
Yours Truly,
Laura Kahn
JJoyce Johnson said,
February 6, 2007 at 10:48 pm
Dear Libbie,
’tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
just to take him at his word,
just to rest upon his promise,
just to say thus says the Lord’
I’m singing for and with you right now. How wonderful to hear you resting in the promises of our Great Comforter. I too, was privileged to be with my dad (along with the rest of my family) when he went to be with Jesus almost 3 years ago..so much of what you described sounded sweetly and painfully familiar.
I know that the Spirit will continue to carry you and uphold you. Joe and I are praying for and with you right now.
Ferenc Postma said,
February 7, 2007 at 7:20 am
So far … So close …
Dear Libby and Family,
Our Thoughts and Prayers are
with all of You
In Christ,
t.t.
Margriet Gosker & Ferenc Postma
Venlo, The Netherlands
Rev. Michel Nahas Filho said,
February 7, 2007 at 8:00 am
Dear Sisters and Brothers, family and friends of Prof. Groves,
Christ’s Peace be with you all, indeed!
How awesome is this assurance that we have in the One who openned the gates to God’s dwelling for the ones, as the Hymn says, “He came to save”.
During my time at WTS, I did not attended any particular course Prof. Alan was teaching (just some classes), our ways never crossed in an intentional way, I never had to debate grades with him, so we practically did not know one another. Notwithstanding (and I don’t know how that happened) there was always a loving attitude coming from him, he always addressed me by my first name, there was always a word of comfort, support and wisdom from him, to me.
I was preparing my sermon for Sunday on 1Corinthians 15 (RCL), about Christ’s ressurrection and I was touched by Alan’s homecoming. I think he’s still teaching us all…
My prayers and thoughts are with Al’s family!
Mike Nahas
United Church of Canada
Bedford, QC Canada
Meredith said,
February 7, 2007 at 9:18 am
Dear Groveses,
Weeping and rejoicing with you, and glad that weeping will inevitably turn into rejoicing because of Christ.
Am reminded again that to live is Christ, to die is gain.
hugs and prayers,
Meredith Riedel
Craig Combs said,
February 7, 2007 at 9:23 am
Dear Libby, and children,
It is Wednesday morning, and I just this moment checked in and discovered the news of Al’s homegoing.
My prayers are answered better than they were prayed, and yours are, too, aren’t they?
I am deeply blessed by your family, by the grace of God that has flowed to you and through you to all of us in this season of suffering.
I rejoice with you, and I am weeping with you.
If the Lord permits I will be at the celebration. It it cannot be, then I will be celebrating with you from Vermont.
My brother Al fought the good fight, finished the course and kept the faith. He loved the appearance of Jesus, so he gets to wear the crown of righteousness.
Amen, and amen!
Yours for dear Jesus’ sake,
Craig
judi lemay-lusk said,
February 7, 2007 at 9:35 am
libbie, since i appear to be post #146, i’m not sure there is much left i can say that someone before me said.
he ran the race so very well, he is now embracing Jesus, Jack, Ben, Ron and a host of others. My prayers and thoughts are with you as you rejoice/weep and for the weeks and months to come.
love and hugs to you, alastair, lauren, becky, eowyn and alden (and i’m sure in your household there’s probably … becky’s roommate, alastair’s friend…)
judi
Tom Homan said,
February 7, 2007 at 12:15 pm
Dearest Libby and children,
Through out my life there have been a handful of people who have gone on before me who have taken a bit of me with them. Al is one of them. As such, I feel empty. Al was my friend, a rare and precious gem. It did not matter how much time passed between our meeting again, we would instantly return to the close place of friendship upon seeing one another. I am so much the better for having known Al.
As much as I will miss him, he has left a piece of himself with me. As such, I am full. The imprint of his life upon mine was great. His example to me always led me to Christ. I will carry Al within my heart the rest of my life.
I rejoice with you that Al is with the Lord. His suffering is now a vague memory, a faint shadow cast by the eternal brilliant light of Christ. His joy is complete, how can we be anything less than happy for him! Yet cry I do. Thankfully we can expect a joyful reunion one day.
You remain in my prayers.
Love,
Tom Homan (On behalf of Charlotte, Joel and Seth, each of whom echo my sentiments)
Jeri Tanner said,
February 7, 2007 at 1:15 pm
Dear Groves family,
I had never heard of your precious family or your journey until today. I have spent the morning reading your whole website, and may I tell you how much the Holy Spirit has ministered to and helped me today through your faithful journaling of this passage. I don’t know if you were aware as you wrote updates and thoughts from week to week just how amazing a picture you were painting of a life lived faithfully to God, and of a God so faithful to us…many people will be blessed by reading this, just as you have it written here.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. “The Lord bless you, and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance on you, and give you peace.”
Jeri Tanner
Trussville, AL
Mark A. Stone said,
February 7, 2007 at 5:04 pm
Thank you for sharing the last moments of the family with Al. They were encouraging to me and glorifying to God. I will continue to uplift your family as they continue their journey as pilgrims on this earth. We can rejoice that Al has now crossed that dark river ahead of us.
Bea Kratz said,
February 7, 2007 at 6:10 pm
Dear Groves,
I’m praying for you all and I hope you know that!
After this world, there is a better one waiting. One with the Lord, where we worship and praise him all day!
Bea Kratz
Adam & Amy Ostella said,
February 7, 2007 at 6:30 pm
Libbie, Alasdair, Rebeckah, Eowyn, and Alden,
Thank you for the encouragement to look upward to the glorious hope of heaven. What a blessing to our faith! For those who desire a better country, a heavenly one, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city. Al is no longer a stranger to heaven, nor must he believe in what he cannot see: Christ in glory. But his faith is sight. He is home.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction …
Adam, Amy and Caleb Ostella
Oklahoma City, OK
Bo Ljungberg said,
February 7, 2007 at 6:49 pm
Dear Libbie,
Mourning is Missing.
Your blog is a wonderful exposition of 1Cor 15:55:
“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”
God truly gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!
Yet Paul is speaking of a time when death itself will be swallowed up, at His coming, and so while this is now a blessed reality for Al, we who remain are separated from this here on earth. And so, Paul admonishes us to stand firm, and let nothing move us.
Reading your blog I have pondered what mourning could mean to you and your family, and conclude it must mean Missing: missing your husband, father, friend. You have unselfishly let him go, and I applaud your wishing to honor all that our God and Saviour is to us, and expressing it too. And, we are encouraged to rejoice in the Lord always; repeat.
Yet, you have the right to miss Al. I understand it will be with much gratitude for what he was, and is, to you and your kids. Perhaps this missing-mourning will be brightened by the prospect of reunion in heaven, when we also will have put on the imperishable? All the better!
But missing is mourning. I do. And you and your children have all the more reason and right to.
Kindest regards,
Bo
Grace Zhao said,
February 7, 2007 at 7:29 pm
Dear Libbie and family:
Your joy and sorrows shine gloriously.
I believe our Father is holding all of you in His bosom.
Grace
George and Julie Kong said,
February 7, 2007 at 7:34 pm
“How the mighty have fallen!” (II Sam. 2) - We read this lament in Hebrew in one of Al’s classes. For the first time in my short Hebrew career, I was overcome by a flood of emotion while reading Hebrew! It is a moment I will never forget. How fitting that those very words and feelings came back to me the moment I learned of Al’s passing.
I have many friends and acquaintances in this world, but Al was one of a very few that I consider close friends and kindred spirits, even though I only got to see him rarely. Judging from the posts here, I think there are a hundred people who could say the same about Al. Without a doubt, the world is poorer and heaven is richer since Al has moved on.
Libbie and kids - We will always remember fondly the evening we got to spend with you and Al last fall.
You have been in our prayers and will continue to be .
George, for the Kong family
Paul said,
February 7, 2007 at 9:31 pm
Dear Groves family,
I share in your sorrow in this great loss, but I also believe I share in your joy, because this servent and brother in the Lord has heard that phase we all long to hear, “Well done good and faithful servent”. Al’s life is marked by faithfulness. From his heeding to the call to ministry and training others in it and his faithfuleness in trusting God despite all circumstances right unto the end of his time in this life. What joy to know that in the life he has now, he has no pain, he has no sorrow. He only has the unimaginable and yet attainable glory of praising the living Son of God, Jesus Christ. All of this by grace. Of the grace and mercy he preached and taught he now has full knowledge. What he saw dimly in this life, he nowe sees fully. May the grace and mercy that God extended to Al be ours as well, as we trust in the unfailing faithfulness of God and his great love for us even during these most difficult times.
Paul
Glenda Vanden Berg said,
February 7, 2007 at 9:37 pm
Dear Libbie, Aladair,Lauren, Rebeckah, Eowyn and Alden,
Words cannot express my appreciation for your wonderful testimonies you have all shared so freely on this blog. I have been deeply touched as I read of your journey with regards to the sickness and passing of your beloved husband and father. I have shared some of your entries with my highschool students at school and we have prayed for you as a class as well. I am privileged to have known Al as a professor and friend and you, Libbie as well. I have fond memories of you four children from the time we went to Israel back in 2000. May the Lord continue to strengthen and provide for you all. You will continue to remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Much love,
Glenda
Al Chapman said,
February 7, 2007 at 10:50 pm
Dearest Groves,
Al pointed to Christ through the testimony of his life and, in his passing, Christ is further revealed.
We pray for you. We grieve with you. May God be glorified. Amen.
Love,
Al
David E. Tate said,
February 8, 2007 at 8:59 am
Dear Libbie and Family,
When I think of Al I get a mix of mental images: picking cherries in your yard, being introduced to the Aubrey-Maturin novels, and those nutty mnemonics to help me memorize Hebrew. I also remember our eating lunch together while we discussed the MiniChurch you and Al led together and listening while Al spoke with such joy about Dartmouth and Deuteronomy.
But perhaps the memory, or feeling, that pervades all others is simply a sense of his quiet contentment and peace. I never recall Al being flustered or irritated. He just seemed to walk through life accomplishing infinitely more than the rest of us who were working so hard to run through life. This blog is a testament to that fact. It shows me a man and his family walking together through the valley of the shadow of death, while enjoying the scenery along the way. Amazing.
Libbie, I never remember you without picturing a smile on your face. So, it grieves me to know the sorrow that you must feel because of Al’s absence at this time. I wish I could join the throng which will comfort you during the service on Saturday. I pray the time of worship will be great as together you praise God by remembering how He used Al in our lives. However, I will leave on a mission trip an hour before that service is scheduled to begin.
I pray that God will comfort you during this difficult time.
God bless you.
Jason Zuidema said,
February 10, 2007 at 1:40 pm
Dear Mrs. Groves and Family,
We were saddened to hear about your great loss. We always appreciated the work of Westminster’s OT department and will miss Prof. Groves’ contributions to great Christian scholarship.
God bless you and keep you and make his face shine upon you–and give you peace.
Sincerely,
Jason Zuidema
On behalf of Farel Reformed Theological Seminary, Montreal, Quebec
Matt Lin said,
February 11, 2007 at 6:54 pm
Dear Mrs. Groves and Family,
I’ll always remember Al, especially for the first time that I played basketball with him. I was in my first year at Westminster, and I always extremely nervous before my professors. Yet there he was greeting me as I entered the gym. I think I managed out the words “Hey P-p-p-profess-s-s-sor Groves,” but just barely. Knowing this, he came to me later and said those words I’ll never forget: “Just call me Al.” Of course, I thought of that song right away, but it was his gentleness and approachability that made me love and appreciate him right away as an older brother in Christ. Even before I had the privelege of hearing him lecture or speak in class, the impression he made on me as a person typified the very Savior he so enjoyed to speak of.
May the Lord keep and bless your family–as he has blessed me through yours!
On behalf of the Lins,
Matt