My friend Rein died this past Tuesday.  Some of you knew him and some did not. Those who knew Rein will remember him with a thousand stories and much laughter mingled with our sorrow. Rein was one of those people whose presence filled the room, whose way of doing things was just part of who he was. He made us laugh. The contours of his life from his birth in Nazi-occupied Holland to the loss of a leg as a college athlete to his successes in business and community work to his faithfulness in and to the church are of the stuff that inspire us. His beloved Brenda and their family was always his greatest joy.

Many of us called Rein a friend and, yes, we will remember him with a thousand stories.

Rein and I collaborated on mission trips and a dozen (balanced) church budgets. My stories are of a  relationship that began with me as Rein’s pastor and which, in the end, was mostly just a wonderful friendship. Like all stories about Rein, some of mine are funny and some remember the bigger than life person he was.

When I tell people about Rein, the best stories I have to tell are stories of encouragement and challenge.  More than anyone else during my time at the church, Rein was the one to encourage me to be bold in my leadership and to challenge me when he knew I was being too timid. And he stood by me when others challenged my boldness and encouraged timidity. We talked about life and Rein was generous and open in telling the stories of his ups and downs. He spoke of faith and hope and love lived out in extraordinary ways in his ordinary life.

In recent years Rein and I had talked not only about life, but also about death.  He was eager to live, but ready to die. “No regrets,” he would say.

A thousand stories will be told in remembrance of Rein.  Mine will be about one who encouraged me and challenged me; one who taught me just a little more about faith, hope, and love.

Another friend and I communicated briefly about Rein’s death the day he died.  “It brings a huge smile to my heart every time I think about him,” he wrote. 

A huge smile and some tears.  Thank you, Rein.  You’ve finished the race and a crown of righteousness is awaiting you.