Today is a day I can never forget. I remember this day over my own birthday or anniversary. To successfully multiply ministry requires sacrifice and potentially the greatest sacrifice. If a leader is not willing to sacrifice greatly, there is now way that they will be able to successfully multiply their ministry.
My Dad, Bill Hyde
On this day, March 4, eight years ago my father was martyred by Muslims in Mindanao, Philippines. This day is always a day of re-commitment to the necessary sacrifice that it takes for me to avenge my father’s death. I will avenge my father death by sowing the seeds of love and forgiveness into hatred and evil. I will make every effort to bring as many people to the saving grace of Jesus Christ as I possibly can in my lifetime. This is my commitment I make every March 4.
To see past tributes to my father see the following blogs:
Your father’s death was not in vain. The kingdom has expanded greatly through both his life and death. Your commitment to honor both of your fathers (Heavenly and earthly) will be richly rewarded. Certainly, this is a holy day.
“The blood of martyrs is the seed of the church.” Tertullian
Steve – I was grateful to read your FB link to your blog concerning the significance of this day. I well remember the day – we were gathered in the basement of Lambert Hall for another Faith Academy NHS Induction banquet and ceremony. It was Vince Burke who received a text stating that a bombing had oocurred at the airport in Davao City. Later that evening we learned that your dad was among the victims.
Your tribute, renewed each March 4th is a wonderful and powerful expression of love, forgiveness and purpose. Thank you so much for sharing this and may it help others of like precious faith to do likewise. In the midst of remembering, may the Lord continue to shower you and you family with His love and presence as you faithfully serve Him.
Thank you Steve for remembering and honoring your dad each year like this. It shows your great love and respect for him. You will see him again – not on Earth, but in Heaven for sure!
I remember your dad as a great (and loud) fan of the Vanguards. We used to sit either beside him or very close to him in the bleachers. If winning depended on his pulling for the Vanguards, they would have won every game!
Thanking God for your dad and his life and ministry this day.
Steve, Your dad was one of the single greatest influences in my life. One of the greatest teachers EVER! I can only hope and pray that my children are fortunate enough to experience a teacher and person like your dad that can touch them for a lifetime.
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints” (Psalm 116:15).
Steve, I still remember you all running around underfoot at our mission meetings. How wonderful to read of how the Lord is using you now in spreading the Good News! Dalaygon ang Ginoo!! And, what can I say of your dad, except “Thank You, Lord for such a wonderful servant of our Lord.”
As you know, your dad and I loved to play chess. When we’d get together for our annual meeting (or occasionally at another meeting) we’d find a place to play chess. He’d move in some of the most unorthodox ways, just trying to confuse me! And, sometimes we’d still be playing when it came time for the next assembly and your mom would come out and read us the riot act! We’d act remorsely, quickly store the pieces and head off to our places; but, as you can imagine, the next time we could, it was back to the chessboard and, quite often, another “tardy call”! :))
But, what I remember most about your dad was his love for the Lord Jesus and his one-of-a-kind laughter. Both of them were infectious/contagious! I so hated to hear about his sudden death at the airport in Davao, but my heart rejoiced to know where he now is. I’m sure he’s probably already found someone to play chess with up there and I’m sure the angels are even trying to figure out his moves. :))
Please give our love to your dear mother and family and know we love you all. Thanks again for all you do in Jesus’ Name. God bless you!
Thank you for the kind words and wonderful memories. My Dad loved to play chess! His best friends were anyone that would play hours with him!