I wasn’t sure if you’d gotten this or not.  Chris dictated this to me at our pastor’s request.  It became the basis for his sermon that weekend.J

Friday, October 5, 2007

8:45 A.M.

Dear Saint John Of The Cross Family,

I’m out here in Iraq again. I miss you all terribly, but at the same time I’m glad that I’m out here working again. The Iraqi people have finally discovered their freedom here in Fallujah and are enjoying their holy month of Ramadan.

I was on a convoy today that was stopped over in Fallujah. I was offered a goat from a local shepherd’s flock. Judging from the look of the shepherd, the present was more than he could afford to offer. Of course, I don’t have the ability to accept a goat. The Marine Corps would frown on that. He then wanted to give us his headpiece, a turban, as well. He thanked us for helping to free his land. As a personal gift to me, he gave me a rosary made of wood. Yes, he is a Christian, not the only one.

He lost his whole family to Al Quaeda’s terrorist insurgents. Christianity is persecuted by Al Quaeda. They are forced to give up their possessions in order to be left alone. This shepherd refused to give up his flock as payment to Al Quaeda. His family was butchered as a result, leaving him as the sole survivor. But, you wouldn’t know that this man was suffering because you could see the joy in his eyes. He knows where his family is and knows that he will see them again. He has the joy of Christ.

Although it is hard being away from y’all I am right where God needs me. I will see you all again when my job is done. Just keep prayin’ and believin’.

Love you all,

Chris