Gerrit's Ebenezer

“Here I raise my Ebenezer, hither by Thy help I’ve come.

And I hope by Thy good pleasure, safely to arrive at home.”
- Come Thou Fount

“Literally speaking, an Ebenezer is a "stone of help," or a reminder of God’s real, holy presence and divine aid. Spiritually and theologically speaking, an Ebenezer can be nearly anything that reminds us of God’s presence and help: the Bible, the sacramental elements, a cross, a picture, a fellow believer, a hymn – those things which serve as reminders of God’s love, God’s Real Presence, and God’s assistance are "Ebenezers."


In 1 Samuel 7:12, God’s people put up an Ebenezer and what this communicated to everyone around was – “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” 

The words to a timeless hymn are our prayer for Gerrit/Dad/Papa/Opa – that we would raise the Ebenezer and remember… and then that he would safely arrive at Home with his heavenly Father and those who’ve gone before him – a place he’s longed to be for so many years. 

So today we put up Ebenezer for Gerrit/Dad/Papa/Opa.  Not a soul can deny that we have seen the Lord’s mighty hand in his life and have witnessed the faithfulness of our great God in this man for the last 82 years.  We are grateful for the rich memories and unwavering faith he’s brought to each of us (5 kids, 15 grandkids and soon to be 15 great-grandkids – 49 of us in all!).  We cherish the ways that he and Mom/Grandma/Oma have truly loved each of us and invested tirelessly in our lives and interests.  Because of his proclamation of trust in Jesus and his steadfast patriotism, we all are more in love with our Savior and more grateful for this country and the freedom that has been bought with a price.  Because of his example as a husband & father, we will undeniably be better spouses & parents. 

So we invite you to “raise Gerrit’s Ebenezer” with us.  Tell a story, record a memory, share an encouraging scripture or just read along on our journey.  We know that his life is worth telling about and his impact on this earth is wide-spread, so let’s give GOD all the glory for the things he has done in and through the life of Gerrit.  Join us as we remember and celebrate all he means in our lives and remind each other of the help of our Lord and of his tangible presence.