Saturday, September 4, 2021

Robert Lesslie's books

 Robert Lesslie, slain doctor, saw 'Angels in the ER' and wrote hopeful  stories of faith in tragedy

Robert Lesslie was an emergency room physician who practiced in Rock Hill, SC, about two hours from where I live.  He also grew up in the town near our farm, as his father was a professor there.  After his death in a senseless and brutal murder a few months ago (along with his wife, two grandchildren, and two workers outside his home), I somehow came across the fact that he was an author.  I found several of his books on Hoopla through our local library, and have been reading them ever since.

Lesslie told good stories.  I've always been a medical person wannabe, and have thoroughly enjoyed both the substance and style of his writing.  He was also a dedicated Christian.  Though his books were not overtly Christian through and through - they were mostly inspirational stories - he still got the Gospel message into them at some point in each book.

A couple of days ago, I finished Angels In the ER, Book 2 (released less than a month ago).  This was in the final chapter and was very touching what with the news to come about his tragic death after this was written.

One day, when I depart this body and find myself in the presence of the Lord, my time—however it will be measured—will be filled with the praises and the wonder of Jesus. I know that I will once again be able to hug my mother and walk and talk with my father. There are a lot of people I want to see as well: family and friends, grandparents—some of whom I never met on this side. And I will seek out Peter and John and the apostle Paul, as well as other giants of the faith—men and women whose words and deeds have guided and molded my journey and my heart. We have no idea what heaven will look like—only that it will be perfect. And because of that, I know that one day, when I’ve experienced the presence and joy of that surrounding host of saints, I will find myself walking . . . in a field of lush, green grass, surrounded by gently rising, conifer-cloaked hills. The words of Jesus will echo through that glade: “Behold, I make all things new.”


No comments: