Death often opens our eyes to mysteries of God, and help us reflect on what people around us really mean to us. This evening I heard people testify about what Joe Michiels meant to them. Joe was 21, just like me, a senior Biblical studies major. He died on Christmas Eve, he is survived by his mother. Listening to people share memories about him was so amazing. I wondered how awesome it is that he touched so many people's lives. As I sat and thought about it, I realize that however awesome Joe was, what was more amazing is the God that lived in Joe, the same God who Joe now stands in the presence of. God is so powerful and He can work through anyone. How awesome is our God. Thank you Joe for living a life of witness to the grace of God, and for sharing your beautiful smile with us. You will be missed.

Joseph Matthew Michiels
1981-2002