Fifteen years...

Today marks 15 years since Jason & Lindsay entered into heaven! I am so glad we're finally standing on this side of things... to finally have brought justice to the person who took it upon himself to end their lives for no reason at all 15 years ago. With it having been a complete mystery for well over a decade, it is a relief to have answers... yet nothing can compensate the loss. Even though there is some finality to the end of all court hearings and the beginning of Shaun Gallon's life-long sentence, it doesn't feel like this is the "end of the story." For those who have lost a friend or loved one to violence, the tragedy doesn't just fade off into the past after justice has been served. The loved ones they lost never leave their minds or their hearts.

I am so grateful to the Allens and the Cutshalls, for the incredible faith they have in Jesus... and for how that faith has manifested itself into a powerful testimony of God's grace and mercy in the face of an unthinkable tragedy. They were, naturally, unbelievably devastated by the loss of their children. However, right from the start, I could see how their faith was giving them strength and insight that was so unlike anything I'd ever seen before. They knew that God had a plan and that evil would not triumph. They weren't filled with hopelessness, rage or bitterness. They were instead filled with humility and a remarkable discernment that they were not alone in their suffering. They knew that Jesus was with them and they could feel His presence! They were filled with hope that God could do something powerful with Jason & Lindsay's story... and that's exactly what has happened.

Jason's mom explains that here:

Several years ago, we wrote a book entitled, "For His Glory." It was our personal account of the tragedy of Jason's and Lindsay's murders and the story of God's faithfulness in ministering to our broken hearts. Now, fifteen years later, one last chapter could be added and entitled "Case Closed... Almost." The process here on earth is over, justice has been served and we can move on, knowing God will have the final say. That burden has been lifted.

However, the case is closed, but we feel the story will go on. We still have opportunities to share their lives with others, and in doing so, testify to our sovereign, loving God. We continually speak of Uncle Jason and Aunt Lindsay to our grandchildren. Friends of Jason and Lindsay now have children and are handing stories down to the next generation. Campers who were guided by them that summer still talk of how their lives were affected by two counselors. Those who accepted Christ through the testimony of Jason's and Lindsay's lives now share the good news with others. Even Shaun Gallon's story is not over. He can continue to live with the horror of what he has done by refusing to repent before the Lord, or by surrendering to God, he can live out his life knowing that he is forgiven by the same God Jason and Lindsay lived their lives for.

So, friends, the story is not over. Fruit will still be harvested until Christ returns and time is no more. The end of the story will be written by God.

Missing you Jason and Lindsay and looking forward to being together again,
Mom and Dad

Jason & Lindsay... thank you for the unwavering faith in Jesus that you lived by and the the passion with which you served the Him while you were here! Your example continues to change lives for eternity! Your story is one that glorifies God and we are all looking forward to seeing you in heaven! ❤