The year was 1984. My dad (Clarence Lowry) was diagnosed with lung cancer. The cancer was located in the upper part of his lung; the doctors said it was inoperable and the only option was radiation.

I remember that first day dad went for his treatment and the ten that followed. It was exhausting and he was so weak, not only from the treatments, but the journey from Scottsburg to Louisville seemed to be so hard on him. Through it all he never complained.

On Sept. 2nd that same year I received a call from my sister Joyce Broady that Dad’s lung had collapsed and they had taken him to the Suburban Hospital in Louisville. The family members rushed to the hospital only to find dad in a great deal of pain and discomfort. In three days dad would no longer be with us, but I shall never forget those last words he spoke to me. With his eyes fixed upon my eyes he said, “The most important thing in this world is not what you accumulate, but it’s our God, Family and friends.”

On October the 25th of this year a great number of friends and family members came together to remember Byron McGuire (who went to be with Jesus on Oct. 24, 2007). What a wonderful thing to celebrate one’s life. A life dedicated to our Lord! That night I was reminded of my father’s last words to me, “God, Family and friends…” If Byron were with us today I believe he would agree with my dad: “Put Jesus First”. Is Jesus first in your life? If he is, Praise God! But if he is not, may this be the day you let Him be First.                                                           

Jesus Loves You,
John Lowry