Tragedy Into Triumph
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”1
Ron Hamilton had always wanted a nickname growing up, but nothing had ever stuck. In 1978, after a routine eye exam, a doctor discovered cancer in his left eye which required his eye to be removed. There had been some concern that the cancer had spread to his brain, but praise be to God that it was contained in the eye. Ron began wearing a patch as he traveled to different churches, and after several children referred to him as a pirate, the nickname “Patch the Pirate” came to be!
I grew up listening to the music of “Patch the Pirate”. As a child, I remember listening to the many adventures aboard the Jolly Roger where the sailors learned important lessons and truths about God every time. In my teenage years, I treasured songs such as “Wings as Eagles”, “Rejoice in the Lord”, “Always the Same”, and “Here Am I, Lord”. As a mom, I often find myself singing the lyrics to “Cherish the Moments”, which reminds me of the importance of making the most of the time I have with my children. In hard times, I have clung to the words of “My Hope Is Jesus” and “Lord, I Need You”. The ministry of Patch and Majesty Music has been such a blessing to me.
Ron’s cancer diagnosis and losing an eye was a tragedy. Perhaps he questioned God’s plan in all of this, but what came of this tragedy was amazing! It was the beginning of a new journey in ministry, where the Hamilton family was able to minister to countless families around the world. Ron Hamilton passed away on April 19, 2023, after a long battle with dementia, but his legacy and ministry will continue.
At one time or another, each of us will face life-changing events in our lives. This is when fear and doubt typically sneak in. However, what would happen if we trusted that God is working everything for our good and is fulfilling His purpose in it all? Even the most difficult of circumstances can be used for God’s glory. God is faithful, and when we love and trust him above all else, He can take our tragedies and turn them into triumphs!
Suggested prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your great faithfulness. Your plans for my life are perfect. The obstacles I encounter along the way may be difficult but help me trust that you are using even that for your glory. Thank you for the life and ministry of so many who have gone before us and have led us closer to you. Use my life to bring others to you as well. In Jesus’ name, amen.
1. Romans 8:28 (KJV).
Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.