CEE Story From The Mission Field
A Tribute
April 16, 2003
The past year has brought many tragedies to the family of missionaries worldwide. We have seen kidnappings, imprisonment, murder, death and suffering on a scale never before seen. Twice, it has hit really close to home. We grieved over our missionaries in Yemen who were martyred for their faith and we grieved again after one of our own was killed by a bomb blast in the Philippines. It has reminded us all of our call to service and what it might cost; and it has for most, I think, strengthened our resolve to reach the lost for Christ.
For one family, the death of Bill Hyde in the Philippines hit even closer to home. The Moellers are missionaries in Moscow and were friends of Bill Hyde and his wife Lyn. Here they give tribute to this man who gave all he had to give:
God sent Bill and Garlinda (Lyn), and their sons Tim and Steve into our lives when we needed someone to remind us that the victory and the rest is not in "doing" but in "being". So many times their kindness, friendliness and wise words have blessed our family. When we both had teens (now those kids are in their 30's and three of them have served as missionaries), Lyn gave me a wall hanging that she cross-stitched, which is in our Moscow apartment. It is one of our favorite verses and a Truth that I often turn to.
God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind.
While at our Annual General Meeting, walking along the shore in Cyprus, we were discussing Lyn and Bill. They are two of many missionaries who have blessed us along the journey as parents and ministers by sharing not their knowledge and skills (though they are educated, intelligent and well-skilled in many areas), but their life. That day I read a quote from John Hunter. It made me think of the Hydes and how they have blessed so many over the years.
Some missionaries give up everything to SERVE the Lord and "run out of steam", become cynical or disillusioned. Others, like Paul (and Bill) give up everything to KNOW Him and they are continually renewed and ministering life to others.
How bittersweet the reflecting has been—rejoicing that the stories of Bill's life and his love for the people he truly SERVED are being shared and are inspiring and convicting many, but grieving for our dear friends as well as the other people who lost loved ones in Davao City.
Bette and Charles Moeller
May we all follow Bill’s example of giving up everything to KNOW Him!