A Tremendous Loss!

Today, our MAF family here in Kalimantan suffered a tremendous loss. Pak (Mr.) Simeon, was MAF's first national employee here in East Kalimantan, hired way back in 1978. Over the years he's become an indispensable member of our team. He has been quite literally the keystone player, handling dozens of difficult tasks and keeping the MAF ministry thriving. Here in Tarakan he has been our "number one go-to guy" for a long, long time--working directly with our MAF program and regional managers and the local and national government to keep things going smoothly.

Early this afternoon, after church, the Lord suddenly took Simeon home. His home-going came as a tremendous shock and loss to our MAF family. But he leaves behind an amazing legacy. For nearly 32 years Simeon served his Father faithfully through the ministry of MAF. Over the years, because of his experience, character, and reputation, he could easily have taken other job offers that would have come with considerably higher salary and benefits. Yet he chose to joyfully continue to serve with MAF, because he had his sights on higher things! He had an eternal perspective that shaped who he was and what he did.

As news spreads throughout villages all over East Kalimantan, and to Java, Papau and the far reaches of Indonesia, literally thousands of people will mourn the loss of Pak Simeon. I truly can't think of anyone more well-loved, respected, and influential, both within MAF and among the Lun Dayeh community, church, and government throughout Kalimantan, than Pak Simeon!. But though our loss is real and painful, it's tempered by the fact that we know Simeon is rejoicing with his Heavenly Father--and we have a hope and expectation that one day we will be reunited!

In the meantime, please take a moment to pray for Simeon's family and friends, and for our MAF family. Thanks!