Page 77 - Senior Link Magazine Winter 2018- Online Magazine

counter to rebook our now encourages the lost, the searching, and even the most
flights, and I noticed seasoned believers. Welby Smith’s and Russ Murphy’s
she had the words legacies live on in Chad Gross, as he and his family fan the
“Psalm 25” on her flames of faith in hearts all over the world, to the glory of
backpack. Just as God.
it has a
recurring
theme
about
putting Welcome Home Soldier
our trust
in God,
it also describes Renee’s life. Renee said, “I by Russ Murphy
definitely was not looking for a boyfriend, but
God used that cancelled flight to introduce As you stood for us in battle we bowed for you in prayer
me to Chad.” He recalled, “Since my car was Hoping that you’d feel our love and know how much we care
back in Alabama, Renee’s mother, Linda Black, We’ll say it loud that we’re so proud of you in every way
gave me a ride home.” Linda added, “When
I first met Chad, I was positively impressed How we thank the Lord we’re together on this day.
with his maturity. I continue to be grateful for
the blessing he is as a wonderful son-in-law, Chorus:
loving husband to my daughter and father to Welcome home, faithful soldier, welcome home
my grandchildren.” Chad continued, “I finally Welcome home to those who love you, to the place where you belong
got to introduce Renee to Welby and LaJuana. As you fought the fight for freedom you were not alone
Russ married Renee and me in Germany, in a Welcome home, faithful soldier, welcome home.
small, 700-year-old church, in the little village
of Sachsen on May 24, 2002.” We thank you for your courage as you faced the enemy
The Song “WELCOME HOME SOLDIER” You sacrificed and gladly paid the price for liberty
You’ll always be our hero for you have done your best
“Upon my return from Iraq in 2005, Renee and We know you must be weary and you have earned your rest
I visited Welby and LaJuana. Welby wanted
to honor me and asked Russ to write a song Chorus.
to welcome me home. Russ wrote “Welcome
Home Soldier” and performed it during a Bridge:
gathering at Indiana Avenue Baptist Church.
(It was a final nominee for the 2006 ICM Song As soldiers of a mighty cause we’re marching on our way
of the Year.) I was overwhelmed. The emotions To the place where by God’s grace we will hear Him say....
of being deployed, the joy of coming home
and God’s care through it all rushed over me. Chorus.
I will never forget that moment. Welby and
others have given out thousands of copies of
the CD to
returning
veterans, as well
as to those who
have been home
for years. The song
amazingly brings
healing to many
veterans. For me, it
conveys a sense of
earthly appreciation
for military service
and reminds me of
how magnificent it will be to hear my Lord say, “Welcome
home.”

Chad remembers often the life-changing way he was
mentored and who God hand-selected to mentor him.
He leans on what was modeled for him years ago as he 98th & Indiana • 806.797.9704

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