Dallas Willard 1935 – 2013
I really have no idea how to write this post. Last week, Dallas Willard went home to be with the Lord. And I am finding it very difficult to deal with this loss.
Yes, I know all the right answers about losing a Christian, and how death is different for us. But this feels like such a personal loss. I do not know where I would be today if it were not for what Dallas gave to all of us. He was one of the greatest men to ever lay bare the gospel of the Kingdom to those who longed for more of God. The path he forged for the rest of us has made so much difference in so many lives … we will never know this side of heaven how much or how many. I for one am eternally grateful for the gifts I received from his work.
Men like Dallas do not arrive on the scene very often. And while I know a lot of good people who teach Christian Formation, I do not know anyone who could fill those empty shoes. We have lost a great leader and pioneer. The Christian world is much poorer today than it was just a week ago. And I am so sad that I will never again in this life sit at the feet of such a great man.
Thank you Dallas, from the depths of my soul. I am truly blessed for having known you and for having heard your wisdom. In that I know I am not alone. There are thousands around the globe who know what I mean by these words. Though the words do not begin to capture my heart, Thank you.
In closing, let me refer you to the story of Dallas that has been posted on his website.