In Loving Memory

Standing there in shock and disbelief, With my mind and heart assaulted by overpowering grief, I struggled hard to find a way to bring at least some relief To those attached to this life of Dan’s with us so very brief.

My prayer was for the grace of God, in such an hour To be present here, to lead, to help, and to give power. And somehow there, amidst the wreckage, bloomed that subtle flower; Not bursting on like a torrential rain, but coming on slow, like a spring shower.

Oh, the pace was hectic there, as the men were racing all about But even midst that hurried pace, the grace of God had come, without a doubt. Now, twasn’t like a loud, strong command, by sergeant bellowed out, But the still small voice that simply and lovingly said,”I had to change his route.”

This route of life began for him, while but a little boy, And it did not end as thought, returning home from Charlevoix, For the Father knowing, His choice to be not just a ploy, But that through the pain of death can come, the birth of lasting joy.

God’s heart too, knows that pain you all, most surely feel, For His heart too felt agony and loss there on the cruel cross so real, His son was given as the price for redemption’s purchase to seal, And Dan’s life too, was given, that some other souls might heal.

For the call of God upon his life was that he, the gospel should preach, That by proclaiming God’s Word, some other souls he might reach. Now so many lessons from hi life so short, to us our God might teach, Of sacrificial living, and care for others, a choice still open to us each.

To the family that is left here behind, you each hold a great treasure of his life, You dear one, given to Dan in a special role, as a new mother and his darling wife, And to you dear mother and father, his conversion of you, was with admiration rife, And the love for his brothers, ‘tis the kind found spoken of in God’s Holy Two-edged Knife.

For the testimony of life that Dan had lived, without malice, nor anger, nor pout, Has garnered the attention of so many this day, ‘tis enough to cause one to shout, Especially so, should some other travelers along life’s highway be caused to turn about, Then it truly would be worth our hearing that Heavenly, “For this-I had to change his route.”

Written in loving memory of Brother Dan Firman, to the family and friends he preceded to Heaven. Someday, we will have to ask him what is was like to see the highway change to the golden street. I love him, and will treasure also the memories of the time God allowed me to share him with you.

With much love,
Pastor Gary Biggs