A Letter from Ray Ortlund to His Family

I came across a letter that the late Ray Ortlund wrote for his family before he went to be with the Lord. His son, Ray Ortlund, Jr., found it in his father's desk and I'm grateful that he and his mother chose to share it with others. I know very little about this man, but I'd like to end my life like him, trusting God and encouraging my family to love and serve Jesus Christ. Read the letter.

Comments (3)

Josh,

I live with chronic pain. Just an hour or so ago, while in the midst of increased pain, I had the thought, "I should write a letter to my family telling of my joy in leaving this life for a new dwelling". This body is wasting away and I look forward to my glorified body. I wouldn't want my family to grieve greatly at my passing, but to rejoice that at last I am pain free. To write a letter to let them know I have pondered my own passing and that I have prayed for them when that time comes. To let them know how deeply I love them and how thankful I am that I will see them again.

I think I will start drafting that letter tomorrow.

Posted by Anonymous | June 23, 2009 2:10 AM

Hi Josh,

Ray was a great man, indeed! I knew him from my days playing at Lake Avenue. The letter is a good insight into the heart of this great man and pastor. What you see in this letter really is how he lived his life - with everyone - his family, his church people, the man on the street. No pretenses - what you saw was real. Thanks for posting this letter and introducing a new generation to this Godly man. If you get a chance, get to know Ray in his writings and messages and radio broadcasts. Anne's work and life has also been a Godly example to so many.

With thanks for your ministry,

dave in Cayman

Posted by Dave Jorge | June 24, 2009 12:05 AM

That's the nicest letter I have ever read. How I wished it was my father who was writing that letter to me before he died 10 years ago. I loved him so much, I still do. It's just sad coz I was not a Christian yet. I know I can no longer do anything with it but what I can do is touch lives and bring more people to the Lord while I am alive. Thanks for sharing. I plan to link back to this post. hopefully that's alright.

God Bless you!

Posted by Mikes Sumondong | June 29, 2009 5:38 PM

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