The most moving part at the funeral of Ashley’s father was a song.
On November 1, 2002, a youth minister named Stephen Coffey prayed boldly at a prayer meeting: “Lord, I will give my life today if it would shake the youth of the nation.” Later that day Stephen died in a car accident.
John Mark McMillan is a singer and song writer, and was one of Stephen’s best friends. He was devastated when he heard of the death of his friend. Out of pain and anguish he wrote the song, How He Loves, popularized by many different Christian artists. Many agree that over the past decade this song with a simple message has indeed shaken the youth of the nation.
David Crowder’s version of the song played on the radio contains two verses and the chorus, but there is a third verse. John Mark McMillan, while honestly sharing his pain, proposed what his friend would sing if we could hear him now.
I thought about You
The day Stephen died
And You met me between my breaking
I know that I still love You God
Despite the agony
See, people, they want to tell me You’re cruel
But if Stephen could sing
He’d say it’s not true
‘Cause You are goodHe loves us
O how He loves us
O how He loves us
O how He loves(©2005 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music)
In the middle of the funeral, a courageous Ashley walked to the piano and shared the background of this song then played and sang all the verses, directing the last verse toward her dad. Though there were many tears, we all were reminded of the truth of the One who loves.
“The Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God.” John 16:27
“But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Turn to me and have mercy on me.” Psalm 86:15-16