Written By: Kelly Kemp | St. Augustine CS Chapter
Photo By: Matthew During
“Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:” John 11:25
A close friend of mine was a retired Florida Highway Patrol Lieutenant, Ricky McIntyre. Unfortunately, he was not fond of saltwater. When he was in Puerto Rico on vacation, he sent me a video of the surf while he was there. We both agreed that the surf in Puerto Rico was better than in Florida. When I would see him in church, we talked about Law Enforcement and liked trading stories of our work. Even though he did not surf, he enjoyed talking about my interest and was a proud supporter of Christian Surfers and the mission.
Last month, Ricky ended up in the hospital, and the family invited me to see him. That day he breathed his last, I had the privilege to read the passage below, come to attention, salute, and pray for his family.
“Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:” John 11:25
Though we were sad about Ricky’s death, I know where he is. He believed in Jesus as Lord and Savior. He believed that Jesus suffered and died on the cross for our sins, was buried, and arose again from the dead. Because of this, he had peace in his heart and his life. His wife’s request was for the gospel to be presented at his funeral, so people would have the opportunity to give their lives to Christ.
It doesn’t matter if the surf is better in Florida or Puerto Rico. Surfing is an incredible gift from God, but what matters is your relationship with Jesus. Wherever you are reading this, the Lord wants you to know the only way to have eternal life is by having peace with God.
Ricky had peace from the Lord because of his relationship and trust in his savior, Jesus Christ. The Bible says to turn from sin (our human desires), put your entire trust in Jesus, and confess Him as your Lord.
Maybe you are sensing God knocking on the door of your heart? It is as simple as calling out, “Jesus is Lord, I give you my life, Jesus.” If you have questions on how to do this, talk to your local Christian Surfers leaders or church.
