My Obituary

Andy Stanley was one of the speakers at Passion this year. He talked about how who you want to be is more important than your relationships and what you want to do because who you are will determine your relationships and what you want to do. One of the exercise he introduced was to basically write your on obituary or what you want somebody to say about you at your funeral. This was extremely awkward and morbid but it really help put into perspective who I want to become! Hope you enjoy it :)

Harold Tan Crow

Harold was a Christian. Not just the denotative meaning of the word; professing belief in Jesus as Christ or following the religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus. But also the literal meaning of it; Christ-like. Harold’s immovable faith and unstoppable passion for God overflowed into his attributes and defined his excellent qualities as a human being. Everything he did is just another way of sharing what he cannot contain. God loves so Harold loved. God gives so Harold gave. Everything Harold did can be traced back to one all-encompassing purpose; to glorify God. He never tried to shove religion down anybody’s throat, but his example forced other to take God more seriously. Harold did not live a “normal” life. He did not chase after success, popularity, or status, instead he chased after God with everything he had. And as a result, Harold gained the respect and admiration from his peers.

Harold loved what God loves and hates what God hates. This meant Harold strived to excel in things God has revealed to us; encouragement, honesty, love, humility, courage, thankful, etc… He was honest even when honesty was costly. Harold cared more about his friends then he did the status of their relationship. He was meek even when he was successful; Harold simply gave all the credit to God. He loved others even when it was difficult to do, just because God loves them too. Harold remained rooted in faith and his courage was unyielding even when the circumstances were difficult. He never complained about anything but instead he was always grateful for everything. Harold was extremely encouraging. He was always there to build up; never did he cause somebody else to stumble. Harold simply loved people.

Harold was an extremely intelligent person, both in this world and in his faith. He could confound others with the knowledge of how the world works and defend his faith with arguments so logical and convicting that it would cause even the most unbending atheist to second guess themselves. But Harold never tried to manipulate others to do what he wanted them to do; instead he was constantly trying to help others. Harold was a servant.

Harold trusted God every step of the way, even when the road seem to be heading nowhere. God was his guide, his advisor, and his best friend. Nothing breaks his heart more than seeing a friend going astray from God. Nothing would bring him greater joy than seeing a friend come back to God. Harold was always singing. Whether it was in a choir, band, or just simply dominating his vocal talents while driving down the road, Harold always seemed so joyful. He would say that music was what most connected him to God. When asked what was most important to him, Harold said that it would be his passion to know God more and the sacred ambition to make Him famous; to know God and to make Him known. This holy affection for the God of the universe molded Harold to the person he became and build up a legacy that will forever change our lives. If I had to sum up Harold’s life in one statement, it would be this:

It was an all-consuming passion and love for God and other people.