“So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb. They both ran, but the other disciple (John) ran faster than Peter and arrived at the tomb first; he bent down and saw the burial cloths there but did not go in.”
This detail is one of the most interesting in all of the Gospel accounts of the Resurrection. Why was it important to have John, the youngest Apostle (perhaps 18 years old) reach the empty tomb of Jesus first, then wait for Peter, then go in and witness the moment that truly changed the rest of his life forever? We could say he got there first in two ways: “Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed.” Although it was clearly not a race, John, the younger Apostle, allowed Peter, the first and head of the Apostles, to go into the tomb first to witness first-hand the miracle of the Resurrection we celebrate at Easter.
The second way is deep in so many ways. By some accounts, he lived nearly 90 years which means he had over 70 years to reflect and remember all that Jesus had taught him. It was also amazing that as the only Apostle who never abandoned Jesus in His darkest hour did not suffer a martyr’s death. His perspective on the whole of Jesus’ teaching was both mystical and simple: “What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we looked upon and touched with our hands concerns the Word of life — for the life was made visible.” —and if we had to summarize all this wonderful Christmas reflection, we would allow John the Beloved to do just that: “LOVE ONE ANOTHER” (1 John 4:8)
Board Member
Everyone needs to have a Ray “Redfish” for a friend or at least to meet one like him before you leave the planet. He has never been known to interrupt a single person, say an unkind thing, although he did come close during the last Dallas Cowboy game, or leave any food on his plate. Ray wants to live in a world where Jesus is Lord, life is sacred, and blessings never end.
Board Member
Grateful for an amazing group of friends and a life that has been blessed and enriched by so many, Andrea brings a deep joy and dedication to the mission of CityOfAgape. She is detail-oriented and uses her experience and foresight to proactively address the needs of those around her. When you speak with Andrea, you feel like you’re the only one in the room.
Board Member
Father David comes from the land of Iowa where you can get sunburn and frostbite all in the same week. He has the mind of an architect and the soul of a musician. Father David has given his heart to Jesus and truly lives in the Kingdom. An accomplished guitarist, drummer, phenomenal preacher, he has the voice of a baritone angel. His prayers are powerful and his humor, well… it’s Iowan.
Secretary/Treasurer
Every day, for nine months, an intermittent light rain falls in Seattle, Washington. Those days are brightened by the warm smile and hopeful outlook on life that Angelyn brings to every encounter. Her financial expertise and engaging conversation has ensured great things ahead for CityOfAgape. Her life is filled with a constant welcome that is focused and friendly.
President
Jacqueline’s life epitomizes hard work, creative service and complete dedication, not only to CityOfAgape, but also to her husband, Joshua, and her beautiful children. Her smile, even when things are difficult, is refreshing and comforting. In most currently used English dictionaries, under the word “energy,” you will find Jacqueline’s picture.
Secretary/Treasurer
Janice is not only meticulous in reviewing records and requests for Scriptures, but her eyes well-up with joyful tears when you ask her about all the letters she has received from the thousands of Bible recipients over the years. She loves gardening and listening to the earth; her life is like a long stroll through an intriguing and engaging nature center.
Board Member
Father James’ priestly service has taken him to four different countries, many parish settings, and in contact with more friends that rivals most politicians. One of his favorite quotes is by G.K. Chesterton, “Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.” If there are sounds of a lively discussion, mixed with hearty laughter and the aroma of a good cigar, Father James can’t be too far way.
Founder and President Emeritus
The minute John walks through the door, your IQ goes up. He embodies the remarkable talent of grasping the bigger picture while juggling multiple points of view, in a world where many are very one-sided. Always happy, even when he is sad, John is ready to challenge and comfort all in the same breath. Where some only see problems, John sees the bright promise of tomorrow. His inspiration and memory will outlast his years on earth. John always says, “there are always miracles where there is great love.”