Time to Eternity

A friend, Mentor, and a formative agent of my spiritual condition, Pastor John Bollmann has changed worlds. On November 8th he struggled with his heart and stepped from time into eternity with his family surrounding him.

John was the Pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Ellendale North Dakota when I was confirmed in 1959. My parents were killed in a motor vehicle accident 6 weeks later. He conducted the funeral. I actually remember what he said that day. Here's a picture of the church building where all these things happened.

I have great men who have been agents of development for me. Men who invested themselves in my life and for that I am eternally thankful.

John's investment during those years for me was to help me reach depths in God that allowed me to go higher. You can't go higher if you won't go deeper. I was never satisfied to stay the same. Pastor John was a pusher as hooked me on Jesus like he was giving me Crack Cocaine.

Even though I drifted and I sought out lots of optional directions for a while, the teachings and principles I learned from that little catechism still frame my life. When I came back to Jesus at age 33 I knew there had to be more. I wouldn't be satisfied without finding much more. John hoped I would get it in traditional Lutheran venues, but I was looking for more. It wasn't in the churches with the same name on the door but without John and his encouragement in finding more.

I remember meeting with him several years ago in Palos Park IL after we had moved to Chicago. When he asked where I was attending church and I told him he was disappointed. I could see it in his eyes. Later he came to see my Brother John who was staying with us while doctoring in Chicagoland. That was a precious time. Now he stands with hands upraised in robes of pure white on the sea of glass before the throne of God. I have a feeling he may understand the addiction better now. I was just seeking heaven on this side of the veil before I go to the other side.

There are no Lutherans in heaven. There are no Catholics in heaven. There are no Pentecostals in heaven. There are only passionate worshippers of Jesus in Heaven, full of glory with joy unspeakable. Seems like it should be like that here on earth as it is in heaven. At least we should try. We pray it, why not us, why not here, why not now?

I had lunch with Brother John and His College Roommate Harold Hein a couple years ago. Harry is a member of our church. It was delightful. I felt like I was home. Brother Harry called me today to tell me that John had gone on ahead.

The funeral is Wednesday. I don't have a place to send cards but the service will be at Trinity Lutheran Church of Tinley Park IL.

Brother John, you were and are loved. You got everything we are promised on earth, 3 score and 10 or maybe 20 if God grants his grace.

Grace was granted well into 4 score. You were full of years.

Life is best when well lived.

John lived it well.