Archive for the ‘Death’ Category
The Storm Painter
The Storm Painter
The painter of the storm had a mission. He had painted many a dark sky with thunderclouds before, but from a distance. He had painted the storms from the shore in the shelter of his studio where he was safe from all the elements of destruction. Today would be different. Artist Joseph Turner chose to view this storm outside his comfort zone.
He wished to paint what a storm looked like to him from the inside. This wasn’t to be just any April Showers moment. This storm would be a major blizzard, a rogue storm. Yet not just a bad snowstorm, but a snowstorm at sea. He wanted to view the storm from a boat while the waves threatened to sink his ship.
The seas were tumultuous, the waves high and rolling hard. There was no way he could stand on the deck and not slide off. He had to make a choice. He chose to be lashed to the mast of the ship for hours in the blinding freezing snowstorm. He wanted to paint it so real that on the canvass it would be hard to tell the sea from the sky.
‘Modern Painter’ website paid a huge compliment to Turner’s painting which he simply called Snowstorm.
Snow Storm – Steam-Boat off a Harbour’s Mouth exhibited 1842 Joseph Mallord William Turner
Turner
Joseph Mallord William Turner 1775-1851
Modern Painters described the Snowstorm, as “…one of the very grandest statements of sea-motion, mist, and light, that has ever been put on canvas.“
Maybe We All Are Painters
While almost none of us make our living as a professional painter, we still know a bit about the storms of life. Many know what it’s like to be tied to the mast and feel the snow, the sea spray, to be slapped in the face with freezing winds and have no defense from the storm. Imagine what it’s like to tied:
- For hours with the snow beating your face.
- For hours in the howling wind.
- For hours with the ship struggling to survive the storm-tossed waves.
- For hours seeing life-threatening skies and seas.
- For hours in the bitter cold.
- For hours of being wet and miserable.
Maybe We’ll Never Paint A Portrait Of Surviving The Storm…
Until We Too Have Been Tied To:
- Heartache
- Cancer
- A Heart Attack
- A Bad Marriage
- Spousal Unfaithfulness
- Financial Devastation
- Rumor
- Loneliness
- Afflictions
- Rejection
- Depression
- Lifelong Illness
- Abuse
Maybe We’ll Never Be Able To Paint A Portrait Of Bearing One Another’s Burdens…
Until We Too Been Lashed To The Deck Of:
- Stormy Seas
- Tribulation
- Shame
- Embarrassment
- Overwhelming Disappointment
- Bitterness
- Shattered dreams
- Tears
- Brokenness
- The Death Of A Child
- A Backslidden Spouse
- An Addicted Love One
We cannot accurately paint the storm for others to see until we have lived through one our self. Naysayers may try to find fault with our story. But we have been there. We somehow survived. We felt the mast rub on our back. The rope burns will be there for a while. We suffered hypothermia. Our body shivered with the freezing snowstorm.
We thought of those we knew sitting at home in their warm little world. They could not help us now. It was no longer just a storm. It had become our storm. We chose not to waste our storm but share it with others in the hopes they would be helped or blessed.
Maybe We Will Never Truly Paint A Portrait Of Revival…
Until We Have Been Lashed To The Deck Of:
- A Burden for souls
- A Prayer Room
- Travail
- Tears
- Vision
- Compassion
- Outreach
Maybe We Will Never Truly Paint A Portrait Of A Father’s Love…
Until We Have Been Lashed To The Deck Of:
- A Wayward Child
- Tearful Forgiveness
- Showing Mercy
- Patience
- A Special Needs Child
- Unconditional Love
- Courage
- Sacrifice
Maybe We Will Never Truly Paint A Portrait Of Deliverance From False Doctrine…
Until We Have Been Lashed To The Deck Of:
- False Doctrine
- Error
- Tradition
- Family Pressure
The Storms we survive should make us stronger.
The Storms we survive should be used to help others see.
The Storms we survive can later turn into a thing of beauty for us.
The Storms we survive are a gift from God.
(When we hear a testimony from someone who has survived a storm, it gives us all great hope!)
What Portrait Is Our Life Painting For Others To See?
All Bad Things Must Come To An End.
All Bad Things Must Come To An End.
We have lived with the old saying, “All good things must come to an end.” I can sure understand the sentiment to some degree. On the other hand, the opposite is what I wish to think on today. All Bad Things Must Come To An End!
They will come to an end. You’ll see! It’s never an if question. It’s a when question! Troubles won’t last forever!
Psalm 30:5 … weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.
Job
- God changed his circumstances and turned his world around,
When he prayed for his friends.- What would it take to turn your world around?
- All Bad Things Must Come To An End.
Joseph
- Had to live without love, friends, trust, or hope.
- Went from despair, to sitting on a throne in one day.
- Don’t lose hope.
- All Bad Things Must Come To An End.
David
- In his cave of despair, he was surrounded by friends who had major problems too.
- But he didn’t stay in the Cave forever.
- God can single you out for a blessing in an impossible situation.
- David wrote in Psalm 23:5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
- All Bad Things Must Come To An End.
All Bad Things Must Come To An End When Jesus Comes.
When Jesus Comes
Oswald J. Smith 1939
VERSE 1:
One sat alone beside the highway begging
His eyes were blind the light he could not see.
He clutched his rags, and shivered in the shadows.
Then Jesus came and bade His darkness flee.
CHORUS:
When Jesus comes the tempters power is broken.
When Jesus comes the tears are washed away.
He takes the gloom and fills the life with glory
For all is changed when Jesus comes to stay.
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Jesus Came On A Mission.
- Isaiah 61:1 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;
- Isaiah 61:2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;
- Isaiah 61:3 To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.
When Jesus Came:
- He Healed Blind Bartimaeus.
- He Raised The Dead Boy Of Nain.
- He Raised Jairus’ Daughter.
- He Delivered The Man Who Dwelt In The Tombs.
- He Fed The 5,000.
- He Came Walking On The Water.
- He Turned The Water Into Wine.
All Bad Things Must Come To An End When Jesus Speaks The Word.
The Storms Go Away
Murrell Ewing
Verse 1.
I’ll never forget that dark night at sea,
The stars hid their faces; there was no hope for me,
The waves lashed the boat, it was tearing apart.
The wins howled, “It’s Over,” fear gripped my heart.
Chorus
Where did the wind go, who stopped the rain?
I only remember just whispering His name,
So the storms don’t decide how long they will stay.
When the Master says, “That’s enough,” they just go away.
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Jesus Spoke The Word And Calmed The Storm.
- He Will Speak To Your Storm Too.
- Mark 4:39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
- All Bad Things Must Come To An End.
He Spoke The Word And:
- Lazarus Came Out Of His Grave.
- Lepers Were Healed.
- Sins Were Forgiven.
- The Man At The Pool Of Bethesda Was Healed.
There Will Be No More Sea!
- Revelation 21:1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
- No More Separation.
- No More Tidal Waves.
- No More Shipwrecks.
- No More Drowning’s.
- No More Tsunamis.
- No More Hurricanes.
- All Bad Things Must Come To An End.
He Will Wipe Away All Tears.
- Revelation 21:4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
- All Bad Things Must Come To An End.
All Bad Things Must Come To An End When You Come Into His Presence!
- Psalm 16:11 … in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
He’s The Prince Of Peace.
- Peace Is His Kingdom, That Is Where He Reigns.
- When You Live Where He Governs, All Bad Things Must Come To An End.
To You Who Have Faced:
- Pain
- Injuries
- Rejection
- Rumors
- Crisis
- Devastation
- Divorce
- Unfaithfulness
- Betrayal
- Bankruptcy
- Failure
- Addiction
- Death Of A Loved One
- Health Problems
- Abuse
- All Bad Things Must Come To An End.
You Will Survive Your “Night” Of Weeping!! I Promise!
- Psalm 30:5 …weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.
- When All The Bad Things Come To An End… That’s When All The Good Things Begin.
“Put That Cigarette In Your Mouth And Eat It Right Now, You Stupid Fool!”
“Put That Cigarette In Your Mouth And Eat It Right Now, You Stupid Fool!”
My old white ’68 Dodge pick-up truck rattled west on Dragoon Trail through the south side of Mishawaka, Indiana. My Hospital calls had all been made, and I had visited some sick folks in their home as well.
It was almost five o’clock on this lovely Sunday afternoon in October. I looked again at my watch. I had to get to church in South Bend on time.
I came around a gentle curve and saw a 1970’s style convertible upside in my lane. No one else was at the scene, although several houses were nearby. Stopping my truck about fifty feet away, I ran towards the car.
Five bodies lay still on the asphalt. The smell of beer and gasoline was overwhelming for me. Gas was dripping freely on the ground and on them too. Blood was everywhere on their faces and it pooled freely on the asphalt, mixing with the gas.
Half of a tongue was on the pavement beside a two-year old’s head. A soft whimper could be heard and a groan came from someone.
Beer cans from the car littered the area. These people all had to be extracted from under the car, now.
I knew I should wait and call for an ambulance under normal conditions. But this was long before cell phones, so I had no way to call.
There was nothing normal about potential gas explosions, and I couldn’t leave these folks here to burn up. I had to do something.
I was in my Sunday suit, but I got on the ground anyway and crawled under the upside-down convertible. Gas dripped readily on me too. I searched for the baby who was whimpering.
I heard footsteps behind me as I carefully pulled the baby out first. An Indiana State Trooper was the second person on the scene. I was very relieved to see him and gave him the baby. He wrapped it up carefully and carried it to a safe place and came back for more.
He told me to stay under the car and hand him the children. I removed the second child from under the car, to the safety of the Trooper.
By now, two-dozen travelers and neighbors gathered around to watch. I overheard a voice saying, that the drunk driver had been dating the young mother for several weeks now and had taken her and her family for a Sunday drive even though he was drunk.
She loudly told us all that the man was just no good, in her opinion, and she hoped he was dead. She especially wanted us to know that the woman was too good for him, but she that just wouldn’t listen to anyone say so.
The third lifeless child was in my arms by now. There was no proper setting under the car to give CPR. They had to be moved to a place of safety first. My suit reeked with the smell of gasoline, and I had blood me. I feared for my own life, but I feared for theirs even more. They were helpless, they were injured, and they were at the mercies of those around them.
I was still on my belly scooting backwards with the third child in my arms when I heard the Trooper yell at a man standing a few feet away. The Trooper, although partially under the car by now, had drawn his service revolver and was pointing it up at a man’s head. I froze.
The Trooper screamed, “Put That Cigarette In Your Mouth And Eat It Right Now, You Stupid Fool! You’re Going To Blow Us All Up Because There’s Gas Here And You’re Smoking A Cigarette! NOW! EAT IT NOW!”
The man put the burning cigarette in his mouth and began to chew. The Trooper put away his revolver after the man swallowed, I then handed him the last child. That’s when the fire trucks and ambulances arrived. I crawled out, when the Fireman asked me to, as he crawled under the car from the other side. They were now in charge, and my work was done.
The Officer shook my hand and thanked me. But our efforts were to no avail. All five were pronounced dead at the scene.
In his drunkenness, the man had killed himself and four others. For the first time in my life I felt hatred well up in my mind against the driver for what he had done to the innocent people in his car. (I had to pray about that hatred later, but for now it was real and still very alive.)
Over the years, most of us have turned a corner on Life’s Road and seen a tragedy or two of some sort. Our hearts have no doubt ached at their great loss, even though we didn’t even really know them.
- What we do, and how we react at such an event, says so much about us.
- Do we stand around smoking “our cigarettes” just watching the tragic scene for its entertainment value?
- Does it ever occur to us that our careless handling of fire at such a time may endanger more than we realize, and blow things up?
How Do You React When You Hear Bad News About Someone?
- Do you try to help?
- Do you just watch and make comments
- Do you say things that stir up hatred in someone else’s heart?
- Do you bring explosiveness to the situation?
- Some church folks ignore the “I am my brother’s keeper” verse.
Remember, how we respond to tragedy, tells the world a lot about us, and we don’t even have to say a thing.
I’ll never forget the lady who gossiped about the dead man and woman. She told things about them I won’t write about. She wanted everyone to know.
I’ll also never forget the Trooper’s words: “Put That Cigarette In Your Mouth And Eat It Right Now, You Stupid Fool! You’re Going To Blow Us All Up Because There’s Gas Here And You’re Smoking A Cigarette! NOW! EAT IT NOW!”
What Do You Do When You See A Backslider? How Do You React?
It Was A Monday, In Heaven!
It Was A Monday, In Heaven.
The Lord Jesus sat on the Throne and looked upon His Earth. His eyes ran to and fro looking for an opportunity to bless any of them that trusted in Him.
Yet, He was paying close attention also to another group of people. He was watching 148,822 people of all ages around the world, to be exact. This would be the day they would meet Him in eternity. Today would be their last day.
Some would die of heart attacks, and some of cancer. A few would be killed in an accident. Others would die at the hands of another. The list with the causes of death was very long whether of natural causes or by violence.
Many had never heard of Him. Just as many had rejected Him, thinking they would be fine without Him. Others, thought they were ready to meet Him, but they had refused to have their sins washed away, calling on His Name in baptism. Neither had they felt it necessary to receive the infilling of His Spirit, with the evidence of speaking in other tongues. They were none of His.
He was not willing that any should perish. He had even died on Calvary for each of them. But that fact was not cherished by most.
Backsliders scurried about; oblivious of the fact that today would be their last. Lukewarm Christians drove past the church they hadn’t attended yesterday, on their way to work. They were mad at the preacher and wanted him to know it.
Most of those He was watching had never even thought about Him today. They had never spoken to Him in a prayer either. He was the last thing on their mind.
Some did drugs, some drank and some partied. Some were immoral. Others were morally good people, but they just didn’t feel the need of Him.
A few of them had started this day out by talking to Him. Some had stopped by the church to pray before they went to work.
He had paid close attention to their hearts while they had listened to their Pastor preach, the day before. He also noticed them taking time to pray before leaving.
Today was the day. One at a time, they all would step out into eternity. Most never saw it coming. It would catch them all by surprise. But, for others of them, this would be the best day of their life.
Sure, they would be saddened if they could see the grief of their beloved family and friends. But, Oh What Joy! Their Race just finished today. They were Home, at last.
It Was A Monday, In Heaven!
(Are You Ready?)
A Short Pictorial Of My Life
A Short Pictorial Of My Life
Psalm 1:3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
The passing of our parents leaves the deepest of voids in our lives. The GOOD News is, that the guidance and support from our Heavenly Father and the Church (our Spiritual Mother) will always be there!
I Wouldn’t Miss It For The World!
I Wouldn’t Miss It For The World!
We’ve all been invited to a lot of family celebrations, parties and church events. In our vast catalogue of responses when being put on the spot, we’ve all given the host or hostess great assurance with our off-handed reply. We say, “I wouldn’t miss it for the world!”
- We have said that about birthday parties and anniversaries.
- We have said it about school presentations and graduations.
- We have said it about retirement parties and family reunions.
- We have used that line when invited to a special church service.
- We have used that line most of our adult life.
It’s just a common response to a myriad of invitations. You might call the statement overused or hyperbole, and normally you would be right, but not this time. This time it’s for real!
This time I’m talking a Heaven. Isn’t Heaven what I’ve have lived my whole life for? Isn’t Heaven the goal and the conclusion of my Christian walk?
Why then would I miss it for the World? What does the World have to offer that surpasses what Heaven has? Why would I throw away Heaven, for the World? Does anyone really believe that trading Heaven for the World is a good deal?
I cannot remember not loving Jesus. I have no memory of not wanting to see Him and be in Heaven. I want to see Him now more than ever.
The saints of God believe that when we get to Heaven, we shall know one another. I do too.
1 Cor 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
Since the recent passing of my sainted Mother, my thoughts have once again turned Heavenward. She joins my godly Father, and my beloved sister, Beverly Anne in Heaven. They are now part of that ‘great cloud of witnesses’ that awaits our arrival. I rejoice over the fact that my parents and my sister lived glorious and Spirit-filled lives. I can’t wait to see them too!
- All these years, I’ve sung songs about Heaven!
- All these years, I’ve thought about Heaven!
- All these years, I’ve preached about Heaven!
- All these years, I’ve dreamed about Heaven!
I Wouldn’t Miss It For The World!
Mama Planned Her Own Funeral
My Mother planned her own funeral service. She even helped design and put together her Memorial Brochure. I know that sounds macabre, but she did.
Quite a few years ago years ago, something was said, during one of my visits, about dying. I brought up the uncomfortable point that as an evangelist, I would no-doubt be preaching somewhere far away when she died. We both knew, that there may not be a lot of time to put together a nice Memorial keepsake she would like for others to remember her by. I suggested maybe we could put together a draft, so there wouldn’t be a lot of work to do later.
I said, “Mom, what picture would you like on the front of your Memorial Brochure? She looked with me through hundred of pictures and finally chose the one she liked. Then we started with planning the ceremony. When we finished, Mom read it and smiled.
The brochure that will be passed out at the funeral, is the one my Mother read first.
How Do You Say Good-Bye?
How Do You Say Good-Bye?
Good-byes are not always easy to say. As a small boy, my grandson Huntley Ballestero struggled with saying good-bye to those he loved. Especially when my wife and I were leaving after visiting his home, he would hide when the good-byes were being said and the hugs got passed around. He didn’t like saying good-bye.
I tearfully remember my Alzheimer’s afflicted Daddy standing on the porch of his house in Fontana, California. Even with Mom’s prompting, he struggled to wave good-bye to me as I sat in my rental car ready to head back to the airport.
In a weak sounding voice he haltingly said, “I’ll see… you… in the… rapture.” With tears drenching my face, I vowed to him that I would see him in the rapture!
No final good-bye is easy! Words don’t seem to be able to say it all.
Sometimes, death comes to our loved ones so quick there is not time to say good-bye.
Other times, the good-byes become stretched out for several days or even a couple of weeks.
And then there are the good-byes that unfold in slow motion. They go on unendingly. We stand by and watch as their body slowly succumbs to the ravages of disease. We are helpless to fix it for them and we grieve that we can’t make them better.
Our hearts ache when we see the one we love, admire, trust and enjoy, fight so hard to live. It’s as if their body can’t keep pace with their will.
Such Has Been The Good-Bye To Our Beloved Michigan District Superintendent, Bro. Joseph Carpenter.
The first time I heard the name, Joseph Carpenter, was in 1964. My wife-to-be informed me she was going to be a Bridesmaid in her cousin Victoria Jordan and Joe Carpenter’s wedding.
When my wife and I married in 1965, some 5 months after their wedding, she asked Victoria Jordan Carpenter to be in our wedding.
The first revival my wife and I preached after getting married was for Bro. Victor Jordan in Jackson, Michigan. Bro. Joseph Carpenter assisted his father-in-law, Bro. Jordan and was a tremendous blessing to him and the church there.
Bro. Carpenter loved the work of God, he loved everything about church and he loved the Michigan Camp. All of us from Michigan have seen him work around the camp. He wasn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves and get dirty. He led by doing.
Today my wife and I shed tears remembering our ‘cousin’, our friend, a great pastor, a tremendous preacher, and our beloved District Superintendent… Joseph D. Carpenter.
For the last many months we have all viewed his will to live and his struggle with disease in person and on Facebook.
He has been exceedingly brave. His wife and children have also been heroic in their support and comfort giving. The rest of us have tearfully watched and waited, praying, reading updates, and hoping against hope. And then as we held our collective breaths, we watched the man we love leave us. We were forced to say good-bye!
Reading the sentiments of family and friends as their aching hearts have spilled out onto the printed page has comforted us.
Facebook Posts From His Immediate Family
Sister Victoria Carpenter (Wife) “Even though my heart is hurting I am flooded with precious memories of my life with this awesome man. I am so blessed, so very blessed. I love him more than words can express.
“With family and close friends tonight as we sit with my husband. Feeling the sweet peace of God in the room.
“Sitting here in the hospital with Joe and Angela. My husband is telling us stories of when his Mom and Grandmother came into the Christian Temple church in Jackson. His grandmother was healed of a Tumor and that was the beginning of their walk with God. So interesting!!
“All the family was together tonight. Love my family so much. Good talks and lots of laughter. My husband had a much better day, still very weak.
“Can’t keep a good man down. Sorting through mail.
“Left my sweet husband resting tonight. Pray that he has a good night.
“Bro. and Sis. Mooney came to visit my husband today. Joe came and then Jay, Angela and Kelsea came this evening. My husband was feeling much better when I left tonight, after having a rough day.
“With my sweetheart. He is resting pretty good right now. Had a rough night, lots of pain, but I think they are getting it under control. Covet your prayers. Love you, my precious family and friends.
“So comforting to have my children with me as we travel down this road with my sweetheart and their father. The love they have shown and expressed toward their Dad is amazing. Such love. I am blessed beyond measure. The outpouring of love and prayer from family, friends, and our church is so much appreciated.”
Joe Carpenter - Dad's hand will forever guide mine. I love you Dad.
Pastor Joe Carpenter (Son) “Dad is resting…. Here with mom, Victoria Jordan Carpenter and my wonderful wife, Sherrie Young Carpenter. I wouldn’t trade these last few days for any thing in the world.
“Reminiscing funny stories about Dad that only the family know… just in case you were wondering he has a not so serious side we get to see… precious memories. With Victoria Jordan Carpenter, Joshua Carpenter, Sherrie Young Carpenter.
“Everyone is sleeping but me, just watching my Dad… I am overwhelmed with emotions… beyond explanation… JESUS!
“Dad is still with us but leaning more toward his heavenly home.
“Just had a wonderful prayer meeting in Dads room, Jay Jones was reading the Psalms… God is amazing…
“Well, Dads ticket home was not for yesterday. He has spent a lifetime planning for this trip; only God knows the date so we wait patiently on Him.
“Dad is still fighting the fight…..spending time with mom, Angela and Jay, Nate and Lisa Nix, and Bro and Sis Henson. What sweet friends to stay up with us and Dad all night.
“Life will never be the same… Dad has gone to his reward.
“My Dad is not gone. He has simply traded that which can never last for that which can never be taken away. Thank you for this awesome line Martha Jaynes.”
Victoria Jordan Carpenter - Can't keep a good man down. Sorting through mail.
“Bishop Carpenter began his ministry in the early 60’s, teaching Sunday School and leading the Youth Ministry of Christian Temple Church in Jackson, Michigan. He was elected as Section 3 Youth Director in 1967, the same year he received his ministerial credentials. After many years of serving as the Assistant Pastor in Jackson he was called to Mount Morris to pastor.
Reverend Carpenter was the Senior Pastor of First Apostolic Church of Mount Morris from November of 1981 until May of 2011. In April of 2011 he was elected as Bishop of FAC. As pastor of First Apostolic he started daughter works in Imlay City and Kentwood, Michigan. He has served the district in numerous capacities over the past 43 years that he has held credentials with the United Pentecostal Church, International. Pastor Carpenter has ministered in several countries, including The Philippines, Ethiopia, Estonia, Italy, and has encouraged and supported congregations and missionaries around the world.
From 1973 until 1981 he served as District Youth President
From 1984 until 1985 he served as District Sunday School Director
From 1985 until 1990 he served as District Home Missions Director
From 1990 until 2000 he served as District Secretary-Treasurer
In May of 2000 he was elected as the District Superintendent.
Reverend Carpenter was a member of the General Board of the UPCI and also a board member of the United Pentecostal Foundation.
Joseph D. Carpenter
May 13, 1946-October 3, 2011”
Victoria Jordan Carpenter - Angela and her Dad.
Angela Jones (Daughter) ”I never had to look far for a beautiful example of marriage… my parents (Victoria Jordan Carpenter and Joseph D Carpenter) lived it out before me!
“Spending precious moments with my daddy, Joseph D Carpenter! Love him so very much! I’m so blessed!
“Mom, I love you!!!
“Dad, I love you so much!!!!!”
Sherrie Young Carpenter (Daughter In Law) “You have been the best wife dad could have ever asked for…. Love you!
“Dad…. I love you so very much and am thankful that you have been my Father-in-law. Could never have asked for anyone better. I truly love you!!!!”
“It is well… my sweet father-in-law went to meet our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We praise him for this….”
Jay Jones (Son In Law)
“Love you, Dad!”
Facebook Posts From Extended Family
Jenny Jordan Teets “Joe, I have looked on FB every hour on the hour all day, looking for a tidbit of news. I know it must be so hard keeping vigil over your dad for hours. But there is a lot of people praying for you, so try to remember all the wonderful times he provided for you, Angela, and your mother… and your mates, and his grandchildren. He has made the world a much better place for so many people!”
“Vicky, my beautiful sister, it must be one of the saddest days of our lives when we lose a loved one. I love you and want to be a comfort to you! We are so proud of his example and the way all of you have carried out your love for Joe these last weeks. I’ll see you soon….”
Sandy Jordan “I woke up early this morning thinking and praying for you all! We love you.“
Victoria Jordan Carpenter - Bro. & Sis. Mooney came back up today to see my husband. Love these people.
Rebecca Starr Trammell “God put you two together and you are and awesome team and raised a beautiful family that is example to many. Vicky you have shown such love and strength and graceful spirit. We love you.”
Marisa Ballestero- Hartzell “Thinking of you all today, I was awakened several times in the night with you all in my heart and prayers. Love you so very much!!”
“Heaven has received a treasure! Brandon and I loved your dad so very much , he had a big impact on our ministry. We will be praying you all for the days ahead.♥♥
Marcia Starr Ballestero “Dear Family We are Praying for you all!! Wish I could be right beside you to just do what ever I could to lighten your load. Love and Prayers.”
“You have always shown such Love and Respect!! God gives Peace and carry’s us. Your Love and Devotion is such a strength to your family. Love You and Praying. I Remember when we all got married the same year five months apart I was in your Wedding You were in Mine. There have been many Loving and Happy Years of Memories. Love You!!
“Love and prayers for our family of Cousins Vicky, Jodi, Sherry, Angela, Jay and their children for the Loss of Bro. Joe Carpenter we will Miss him so much. He has been so Important to all of us in the family and Michigan District. God will carry you in this hard time. Love you, Marcia Ballestero”
Mia Clark-Chapdelaine “Love you SO much!”
“We are mourning, but I can’t help but picture him heading down streets of gold to check in to his new room.”
Suzanne Priddy “Our family prayed for you all this morning on our way to work. The tapestry of our family is woven with threads of memories… Each shade of color is forever placed with loved ones smiles, trials and victories. So when our minds take us to the gallery of memories we will see the value of each of those that were sewn into the fabric of our lives~
“We love you all and are continuing to pray for strength and peace as the final threads of your Dad’s part in the tapestry are woven in~”
Victoria Jordan Carpenter - My brother, Mark came up to the hospital to visit with Joe.
Sara Starr Copple “We Love you…Tom & I and our church has been keeping the prayers ongoing for your family!
“We love you very much… my words fail me…such a loss for us all… you all are such a close~ beautiful family who has brightened the world around you!!! Love my cousins dearly!
“Sending our love…no words are adequate…you are dear family…”
Julie Perry Hopper “Praying strength for you, Victoria Jordan Carpenter, and Angela Jones and your families. Please let your dad and everyone there know that we are praying. Love to all of you.”
Karen S Perry “Dear sweet and beautiful Vicky my heart is aching for you and your family.”
“Sharing in your time of sorrow I’ve cried and cried some more because of your father’s passing plus the memories it brought to mind of the loss of my own father to cancer when he was only 54, 40 yrs ago and the vigil that mother, my family Uncle Victor and Aunt Theodora kept at his bed side. Your dad will live on in the lives of your family for as long as you live.”
Priscilla Starr Spears “You have been an example of integrity, faithfulness and Christian character to me for the past 20 years Today, like a true mentor, you show us how to walk in faith in paths unknown, but awaiting us all. Our prayers are with you; we love you and salute you as a dear friend and compatriot. May God grant our prayers as we pray for you, and may you feel our love and support across the miles, but nearby in spirit, faith and hope. Curtis and Priscilla”
Alexa Olson “Vicky I want to say how much I admire the strength you have shown. I know only God has done that for you, but you are still amazing. Love you and your family and praying for you. So glad you and the kids have had this time.”
Victoria Jordan Carpenter - Jim Fielder and Rodney Clark came to see Joe. Wonderful friends.
Cindy Clark “We are praying for strength and peace for all of you. Sending our love to you today!”
Mark Hopper “My Special Prayer this morning is: God Bring comfort to my Superintendent Joseph D Carpenter and His family. He has been such an incredible leader in the Michigan District. He has set the bar very high in faithfulness and kindness that only I can strive to reach. He has always displayed the Character of a True Christian. I thank God For Him. Bring peace and assurance today to Vicki, Joe, Sherrie, Angela, and Jay, knowing that God is always in control. We love you Bishop.
“Please pray for the family of our dear Superintendent Joseph Carpenter. What a great man of integrity. YOU WILL BE MISSED!”
Christy Huntley Ballestero “Sharing in your loss.. You are right, it won’t be the same. Love and prayers…”
Marian June Davis “Vicky our love and prayers are with you at this sad passing of Joe.He was a great man and seem strong right to the end.Your kids are in our prayers.”
Facebook Posts From Friends
Jerry Ann Guidroz “We love you both!!”
Corliss Thompson Williams “Love & prayers coming your way!!!”
“Vicky, we are praying for all of you! So thankful for the wonderful memories that you two shared! May they give you comfort.”
Brenda Hudson “We just finished Morning Prayer here at our church and want you to know that we have prayed for you and your family. Prayed for you throughout the whole day yesterday. We are keeping the prayer vigil going.”
Suzie Toadvine, Wanda Fielder, and Cindy Clark was here today. love my friends. - Victoria Carpenter
Wanda Fielder “I woke up several times in the night praying for your family. May God surround with His presence! We are with you in thought and prayer. So glad we got to be with you just two days ago and cherish the moment.
“Sent prayers your way this morning.
“We grieve for the loss of your father and our dear friend. We have the fondest of memories of our travels together and are extremely grateful for those precious times shared. Praying for you.”
Brenda Leaman “My dear precious friend – this part of the journey is the most difficult but holds the greatest treasure – either of miraculous healing – or ultimate victory! You have both been so incredibly strong and such a shining example of the peace of God which passes all understanding. Your lives reflect an unwavering confidence in God and a deep love for the Michigan District. You have always been true servants. Our deepest love and continuous prayers are with you.”
Connie Bernard “Bro Bernard and I love you all and are praying.”
Victoria Jordan Carpenter - Bob and Diane Stroup surprised us with a visit to the hospital tonight.
Suzi Henson Toadvine “Woke up thinking about you! Praying for God to give you strength today! Hugs to you…”
Barbara Keller “Love you and your family…you are in our thoughts and prayers!!”
Kimmela Harville Hall “Praying for you all tonight…In the name of Jesus! We love you all…”
“All of our hearts are deeply saddened by this news, and yes, he did fight a good fight. He will be greatly missed. We are praying for you and your family for strength and comfort that only comes from above. We love you all. Please give our dear Sis. Carpenter a big hug from us..,♥”
Karla Baxter Sistrunk “Prayer going up all over the state and the USA today for Bro. Carpenter, you and all of your family! God is faithful and with you every step of the way. We love you all.”
Laquita Reed Mullings “So very sorry Bro Carpenter is in pain. I know you are too. Sending you both love & prayers from The Mullings.”
Mark Grisham “let our hearts be your pillow.. may you feel the tenderness and love we are sending you now……..& the comfort of Our Fathers Love.”
Scott Sistrunk “The MI District UPCI lost a great leader tonight. Bro. Carpenter lead this District to grow from 78 churches to 106 over his 11 year tenure. This ranks among the top growth achievements in recent UPCI history. In the 15 years prior MI had remained at 78 churches for 15 years. May God bless and comfort the Victoria Jordan Carpenter family.”
Judy Abbott Hudson “Vicky, my sweet friends. My thoughts and prayers are with you tonight.”
Betty Strawcutter “The first thing I do in the morning and the last thing I do at night is read your posts Joe. Sometimes there are no words to communicate the deep feelings of the heart but we your friends feel the need to try, your dad has always represented himself, his family, his church and his God with integrity, kindness and love. What he has given in life is now echoing back from those who know him…we care, we pray, we surround him with our thoughts and love.
Holding you up in special prayer today my friend, God continue to strengthen you. Your family is loved by the Strawcutters.
“I’m feeling numb right now – my heart hurts for all of you.
“We have lost a wonderful friend and spiritual leader tonight, Bishop Carpenter has departed this life. My heart grieves for the family – there is nothing more painful than death…I am so thankful that heaven is a city without a cemetery.”
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How Do You Say Good-Bye?
It’s never easy. As we all can see by these comments, it’s not easy for us to see our loved ones go from us. Even though we know their suffering is over and they are in the presence of the Lord. Still, our hearts ache, our eyes fill with tears, and our arms will never be full again.
But, we have this one consolation… our “Good-bye” was not final!
Apostolic Expository Series
Christy Ballestero (My Beautiful DIL)
http://marciaballestero.com/
Pastor Anthony & Kim Ballestero, New Destiny Worship Center, Clearwater, FL (My Son)
Pastor Bryan & Christy Ballestero, Temple Of Pentecost, Raleigh, NC (My Son)
James Groce Blog – "Toward The Mark"
Kenneth Bow Blog
Kingdom Speak Podcast
Philip Harrelson – "The Barnabas Blog"
Verbal Bean Ministries
Holy Ghost Radio
The Ballestero Blog 