"Ed, the Beloved Physician"

“Ed, the Beloved Physician”

 

During our years in Manchester I had the opportunity to work with many godly and committed church leaders. One of these memorable colleagues was Dr. Ed Child, one of the most capable and respected physicians in southern New Hampshire. He had a great resume of qualifications, achievements, and honors but professionally and spiritually always served with humility and grace. When meeting a new attendee at church he would simply introduce himself as Ed Child. As a member of Southside’s Worship Team no one was more earnest in preparation, dependability, or accountability (he would always let Karen know if he wouldn’t be present at practice or on Sunday). And even though his knowledge of Scripture was almost encyclopedic no one was more diligent in taking notes when the Word was taught. He also epitomized the role of an elder (a position he held faithfully for some 20 years) by “…not lording it over those entrusted to (him) but being (an example) to the flock.” (1 Peter 5:3).

The Lord took Ed Home on February 14, 2009. I was privileged to conduct his memorial service before many family members, friends, and colleagues a few days later. I chose as my text “Luke, the beloved physician….” (Colossians 4:14, KJV) and emphasized the many parallels I saw in their lives. Both Luke and Ed were men of great intelligence (Luke wrote the most polished Greek of the New Testament; Ed by his education and practice stood tall among his colleagues), compassion (both closely followed the Hippocratic Oath), dedication (Luke accompanied Paul on parts of his missionary journeys; Ed traveled to several countries to train those involved in medical missions), and conviction (both represented Jesus well and made Him look good). And both left a great legacy to future generations. In short, they were grateful for what God had done for and through them, generous with their time and resources, and godly in living out their faith.

Paul identified his faithful coworker as “Luke, the beloved physician….” (Colossians 4:14, KJV). Karen and I, along with hundreds of other family, friends, colleagues, and patients, remember Ed Child as “Ed, the beloved physician.” May we all learn from and follow his godly example.

Blessings!

Jim McMillan