Rev. Dr. Harvey Friez, our church’s former Senior Pastor of thirty-plus years, has gone to be with the Lord. This week our church family has mourned his death and celebrated his life. During Matthew’s eulogy, I was touched by a spiritual lesson from Harvey’s life that we all need to heed.
Matthew shared that during the waning days of Autumn 2020 Harvey’s health declined. Harvey had some good days, but also some bad days. Wednesday, December 16, was a difficult day. That evening Leonore asked him if he was going to go to lead his men’s Bible study the next morning. Harvey replied, “I’m going to do everything I can to do so.” The next morning, the day of Harvey’s death, Harvey arose at 6 a.m. and got ready. He drove to the men’s Bible study, led the study, and returned home. Upon returning, he told Leonore he had a wonderful time. Harvey, then, presented to Leonore an early Christmas gift—a beautiful ring. After placing the ring on Leonore’s finger, Harvey said, “This makes me so very happy. I am so very happy.” They hugged, kissed, and celebrated. As they rejoiced, Harvey said that he had no regrets about his life. After lunch, Harvey went to his office chair, went to sleep, and died. After his death, Leonore found a note written by Harvey. It said, “Dear Leonore, God had has given me two wonderful gifts: a relationship with His Son, Jesus Christ, and you. Love, Harvey.”
Harvey preserved to the end. The day of Harvey’s death was filled with the same activities he did his whole life—teaching the Word of God, loving Leonore, and loving others. It was a fitting day for the Lord to take Harvey. Harvey loved God and loved people until the end. Hallelujah!
Dear friend, follow Harvey’s example. Persevere to the end. Live every day like it’s your last. Do not die with regrets. Tell the Lord you love Him. Tell your family you love them. Live this day as if it’s your last. That’s how Harvey lived his last day. Honor Harvey by following his example.
Pastor Chance