|
For many years I have watched Roland and Cynthia Bradfute be the hands and feet of Jesus. I've watched as they served others, prayed with others, cried and laughed with others and rejoiced with others. I've watched as they had struggles in their own lives while giving God the glory. I've watched as they loved each other in what seemed to be the perfect marriage. I've watched them as proud parents and often smiled as I watched them with their grand and great grandchildren. I've learned so much by watching Roland and Cynthia over the years but it's what I witnessed these last few weeks that has touched me so. I had the privilege of being part of the team that cared for Roland at New Braunfels Regional Rehabilitation Hospital. In his last few weeks of life when there were more questions than answers, so many tests and procedures as well as daily therapy and medication schedules, Roland continued to do Kingdom work. While getting to know the staff, in his weakened voice he would ask, do you have a church home? "Such a kind man", " A gentle giant", these are just a few of the ways Roland was described by the staff. During this difficult time, Cynthia, his brothers, children, grandchildren and even that precious great grandbaby Solomon were always by Roland's side supporting him as well as each other with hugs, kisses, songs and prayers while offering kind words of encouragement to the staff. Roland and his family showed our staff the meaning of agape love. As each of our patients are discharged from the hospital we have a celebration called a “Priority One". The entire staff line the halls clapping and cheering as the patient makes their way out of the hospital. It was a slow, steady walk for Roland as he made his way to the front doors on Monday Feb 9. For this Godly man, I can only imagine what his "Priority One" was like the morning of Feb 27 as he walked into arm of Jesus, healthy, whole and free of pain. To the family, it was such a privilege and an honor to not only care for Roland but to serve each of you the way that Roland and Cynthia served this church for so many years. Roland Bradfute was one of a kind! They don't make them like that anymore! |