John & I began our ministry journey in September 1987! John was enrolled in Elim Bible College, Nantwich to begin his training. We’d been married for just 6 months and, looking back, it’s fair to say that from day one, our adventure began! We were talking about Bible college today (Saturday 31st August), it wasn’t my favourite two years, but it was where it all began!

In 1988, college saw a change in principle – Jim Dick took the helm. I know that I can speak on behalf of most, if not all, of the students at the time, that Jim and Margery were great!

I worked with Trish Waller in the kitchens! And amongst our many tears that were often on Margery’s shoulders, we had some fun times too at Jim’s expense. We once hid a few alarm clocks in his office that went off at various times, then there was the time that we covered is door with paper so he couldn’t get out without breaking himself out. He always took it in good faith! And I don’t think John and John got less marks because of it! Haha!

After Bible College, we had numerous times together in Scotland and in our first church in Porth. Jim and Margery gave us loads of wisdom over the years, but one thing he said to us that we have NEVER forgotten and often quote was, ‘Enjoy the journey’. We can honestly say that we have. Of course, we’ve had pain and many mountains to climb, but my word, what an adventure it has been and continues to be.

When we heard the news of Jim’s passing on Monday 27th August, we were on Holy Island. And if ever there was a good place to hear such news, Holy Island is definitely one. We stopped what we were doing and thanked God for his life and the week has been one of memories.

Margery and Andrew, our thoughts are with you as you grieve. Jim, you have run your race, you have finished your course, you have been reunited with your daughters and I’m sure you’re doing a dance around the throne of Jesus! What a Saviour.

For us who know Jesus, we should all take Jim’s advice. ‘Enjoy the journey’

The truth is, in one hundred years from now, I think I’m safe in saying that everyone reading this blog will be in paradise, (if you know Jesus), maybe we’ll be sitting by the tree of life having a chat with Jim! Do you ever think about that? Or does life on earth, that is but a breath, consume you? Are you overwhelmed? Are you grieving someone who has gone on before you? Of course, it’s right to grieve, but just for a season, because paradise is our destination, paradise is our destination and, in case you didn’t get it the first two times, paradise is our destination!

Jim, thank you for your wisdom, your counsel, your love and for cheering us on! As for us, we will continue to enjoy our journey until we meet again.

D xx