Sad News: My wonderful mother (Grace) departed this world Sunday night. While we as a family are feeling the deep pain of her loss, we are very much comforted knowing where she is just now. She truly loved the Lord Jesus and His gospel and pointed so many to the Savior she cherished. Her earth suit just gave up on her at age 91 – absent from the body, present with the Lord. What an amazing lady! I love her dearly and am so happy that God allowed her to be my mother. In good times and hard times, she followed her Lord faithfully. I will miss her terribly, even though I know we will one day meet again. I would so appreciate your prayers for our family at this time.

** UPDATE: This morning (Monday), just several hours after my mother’s passing, and after a sleepless night, I recorded two hours of radio programs that will air next week throughout Phoenix (having been invited to do so just on Friday). I thought about NOT doing the recordings, staying home and just reflecting and grieving… and I think everyone would understand if I did not go through with the programs, but then I thought, isn’t this the best thing possible??? – to be given the opportunity of preaching the gospel even in a time of mourning, and pointing people to the wonderful, perfect Savior my mother loved so much? I did this and felt the pleasure of God with me as I proclaimed the gospel as clearly as I think I ever have. What a blessing!

Perhaps, even in heaven, the Lord might say to my Mom, “look, your son mourns you deeply, but look… he is proclaiming the gospel, even through the tears.” How good the Lord is to give me this opportunity at such a time. I understand that several thousand will hear the programs.

*** GRACE SAMSON’S MEMORIAL SERVICE

A Memorial Service for Grace will take place on Saturday, May 13, at 4:30 p.m. at Palos Verdes, 18441 N. 87th Avenue, Peoria, AZ 85382.