Jeff Greene (author) on the disaster site for the 2021 Bowling Green, Kentucky tornados.
My wife, Patty, is of Norwegian descent. Her grandparents were both born in Norway. At an early age her grandmother and family immigrated to America. Her grandfather would come later as a college student. They met, fell in love, got married and had their first child—a daughter. Soon they were off on an adventure that would take them to the Congo as missionaries bringing the Good News to places in the deep African jungle.
After their first year learning the language and planning on where they would be stationed, Patty’s father, Burton, was born. However, two months later, Patty’s grandfather came down with malaria that would take his life. Her grandmother eventually returned to New York where her family lived and began raising her two children. Years later Burton would marry Patty’s mom and have two children of their own—Patty and her sister Debbie.
Oftentimes we wonder about the what-ifs. What if Patty’s grandparents had remained in Norway and never met? What if her grandparents had remained in America? What if her grandfather had survived malaria? If he had survived and remained in the Congo, Patty would never have been born, nor her children or grandchildren. Patty went on to serve in the church and on the mission field; her children also served in the church in various ministries. Would these things have happened if her grandfather had survived?
Romans 8:28 - And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. We will never fully understand this side of heaven, the full purposes of God. We do know that we live in a fallen world and bad things do happen to godly people. And so no matter what, we continue to put our trust in Him. Job said it best in Job 13: 15 - Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him.
This past April, Patty and I got the thrill of a lifetime traveling to Norway and visiting over 15 cousins as well as the farm where her grandfather was born. The highlight of the trip was Patty holding in her arms her grandfather’s namesake, Edvin. We continue to be amazed at the providence of God as we serve Him and His purposes.
At IDES, we hear stories of tragedy, suffering, and desperation. But we also hear stories of redemption, triumph, joy and the acceptance of the gospel. We could not do this work without God’s provision and His faithful partners in this ministry. Thank you for joining Him in His purposes as we serve together.
- Jeff Greene (IDES Advancement Director)
Patty and Edvin