TRIBUTE TO CHARLES CHANDLER

Yesterday one of the greatest men I have ever known went to his eternal home in heaven – Charles Chandler.  It was my privilege to know Charles as my friend (a brother in Christ who stuck closer than a brother), my mentor (father-like) from days as a young Christian man to days as an elder in our church, as fellow worker and soldier in the faith, and as my example of a Christian man. 

Many times, when I’m asked in a men’s group about the greatest Christian man I have ever known, I say Charles Chandler.  In discussions when seeking the right path, I end up telling a story about Charles.  In leadership meetings at our church, what Charles said carried great weight – many times the only opinion that even counted.  He often reminded us that “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.”  (Isaiah 55:8)  And then he would call us into a time of prayer.

He prayed like no other man I have ever known.  He carried with him the prayers for dozens of people that he faithfully lifted to God.  He served those in our church who needed help with great compassion, particularly the widows, like no one I have ever known.  Almost daily he was behind the scenes taking care of everyday needs that many of us would never even pay attention to. 

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I can imagine Jesus saying, as Paul said about Timothy in Philippians 2:20, “ I have no one else like him.”  I say that about him.  Charles served as my role model of a Christian man in his faithfulness to his family and church, in his hunger for the Word of God , in his unceasing time in prayer, in his character and integrity, and in his wisdom.  I count our friendship as one of God’s greatest blessings to me. 

I love you my dear friend.  See you in heaven.  Russell