| A Word from Pastor Art |
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On January 9, Ben stepped out of a chopper in the northern part of Afghanistan straight into a surprise attack. He moved a wounded member on his team to safety and then went immediately back to the fight. He himself was then mortally wounded and, after a series of complications, died at the Army hospital in Landstuhl, Germany. Traci was there with Ben, along with his brother, when he died on January 15. As I visited Traci, it was obvious to me that God was sustaining her in her grief. She told me of how many times that she and Ben had discussed the danger he was in and how he would always say, “We’ve just got to give it to God.” As we talked and prayed together, I sensed that Traci was continuing to “give it to God.” She was committing herself into His hands, His will, His comfort, His strength. As I left this sister in Christ, I knew that she would grieve with hope in the months to come, grieve with God at the center. I let you know of Ben’s tragic death because he and Traci have been a part of the Lighthouse family. Ben was a good man, a believer who lived out his faith. In light of his death, I say this: First, Traci wanted me to let you know that anyone from the Lighthouse family who wants to come to the memorial service is invited on Friday, February 3, at 2 PM here at Lighthouse. Second, I ask you to please pray for Traci and her family, as God prompts you. Third, let’s remember that we have a number of military families at Lighthouse. They face unique pressures, including multiple deployments. Let’s do everything we can to honor these men and women who serve our country so well. If you know one of our military families, do what you can to support them and pray for them. Finally, remember that the best way to honor the memory of God’s people who go to glory ahead of us is to live our lives to please our Lord each and every day. Blessings. Pastor Art 
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