I am an external processor. I also am very much a positive person, so I sometimes find it hard to experience grief. I am grieving today.
Olivia Ray, nine years old, died today, October 3, 2009. She was a friend to my children, the youngest of four sisters, a fourth grader, a missionary and pastor’s kid, and her parents helped disciple us as we transitioned from “normal” life to working full-time as YWAM missionaries.
I have cried more today than I normally do in a year. I don’t know what to say. I can’t even begin to process what Olivia’s parents are feeling. John and Jane Ray, who have served in YWAM for over 20 years, met in YWAM, married, had all four children while serving as missionaries, and continue to serve the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. Their oldest daughter, Hope, is in Norway beginning her training in YWAM, and will soon be flying home to be with her family.
This is a slap in the face to those who would worry that international travel with children might be unsafe. This family has traveled the world, but it was in their “hometown” their daughter met an automobile face to face.
Tragedy. Oh, tragedy. God, give the Rays the grace to turn to You and You alone in the midst of this sorrow. Father, comfort the young man who was driving the car that brought this early death. Daddy, please hold the Ray family closely in your arms and sing your comforting songs of mercy and love over them. May their ears be open to your voice.
I know that the Rays need your support in prayer. They likely will need your financial support, too, as they face medical bills, an airline ticket, a funeral, and tremendous pain.
If you want to make donations to assist the Ray family in their time of need, please make checks payable to Grace Church NWA. Mailing address: PO Box 8519, Fayetteville, AR 72703.
