Tribute To Ian Harrison

Ian, my brother in law, you have left this earth and gone to heaven just this past week at the young age of only 50. Alone you were when you died, but we know that you had a welcome party waiting for you and now you reside with a company of people who love you dearly.

Flawed, like all of us. Scarred. Embattled. From the very moment you were born your body continued to come under physical attack time and time again throughout your lifetime. And yet amidst that tragedy there were glorious moments.

One moment that transformed your life occurred as you started to look through a telescope at the starry heavens. And as the Word states: ‘The heavens declare the glory of the Lord’. And as you stared into that vast expanse called space you met the maker of the universe and was radically born again. Immediately there was a transformational change in your personality, so much so that there came a point that your younger sister asked you to share with her what had so dramatically changed your life. You impacted her. And as you shared with her your story her life was changed in an instant as well.

As the husband of your sister, I am forever grateful for that Ian, because from that day on Shelley and I have continued to walk in obedience to the maker of the heavens and the earth. And without the influence of you as her big brother that may have never happened.

Ian, though your final hours may have been black, dark, dismal and possibly terrifying - you are now in a place where a new body has been granted to you - perfect in every way. All pain has passed, and only peace resides. We will see you soon, for a thousand years are but as a day, to once again enjoy your humour, your laughter and your company.

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2 Responses - Share Your Thoughts

  • Al Barraclough on September 26th, 2008

    Ian,
    haven’t seen you for…20 years?
    Always remember your heart, gentle and strong, a great and loyal friend, devoted and caring. I miss you even though we have been so out of touch…but as Peter says, soon to be back in touch.
    Until then.

    luv ya,
    luv to all family
    Al

  • Peter Smartt on October 4th, 2008

    This is very sad and distressing news. How could such an awful thing happen to such a loving and caring Godly, sensitive guy? I only have positive memories of Ian, someone with a wonderful testimony of his encounter with God and God’s work in his life and that of his family. Ian, you lifted the spirits of those around you and kept us thinking about and trusting God, even during tragedy in your own family.

    We live in a world which has fallen from the very good one that God created. We come to think of death as normal. But it should not be; it is an impostor, an enemy, the work of Satan. Ian, we look forward to meeting you in Heaven on that wonderful day when the last enemy will be destroyed, not just for a great catch-up (good as that will be), but to live transformed lives where …

    “… the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

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