On November 20th 2005 Nelson made the ultimate sacrifice, He gave his life for another. All of the children had been invited to spend the weekend at the beach by our friends that were leaving to work in London. On our last day as the children were racing the waves to the shore, one of our girls was swept out by a large wave. Unable to swim back to shore Nelson was the first to notice and swam out to save her; but things did not turn out as expected.

The waves were large and the current was strong preventing an easy rescue. Nelson kept pushing Elina to the surface and holding her above the water. At first we thought there was no problem; but quickly realized that there were problems. Seeing Nelson struggling to bring in Elina, the husband of our friend swam out to help with Elina. He was able to reach Elina and began to swim back with her; but He too began to struggle and by the time his wife reached him He was going under. We were able to pull him and Elina to shore. During this process Nelson was not able to swim back to swore and had lost conscience, He was pulled under the water and swept out to sea.

We were physically unable to save Nelson that day, yet we have unwavering confidence that Nelson spiritual soul had already been saved.

Our lives were created with a  purpose.  Our challenge is to live every moment for the Lord Jesus Christ.

Nelson’s challenge to each of us would be to not let anything hold you back from following Jesus Christ.  Totally dedicate your lives to live for Jesus, with every word, very thought and action.  Leave behind the old lives and truly be born again.

Let us make Nelson’s testimony a living example for our lives.  Nelson was an orphan, growing up on the streets, involved in a life of destruction. Yet one day through the love of others Nelson accepted Jesus Christ as his person Savior. In that one decision his life was completely transformed. He left behind his old life and began a new life in Jesus Christ.

His love for others was his ultimate triumph and is what called him to be with Jesus Christ. Have no doubt that Nelson is worshiping at the feet of our Heavenly Father.

We could be given no greater challenge then to give your life for Christ.

We miss you Nelson; but rejoice with you and we look forward to being with you again . . . Throughout eternity . . .