March 31, 1942-June 6, 1959 “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Phil. 1:2121For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21).
This paper was prepared by Karen Ruth Johnson, fulfilling a school assignment at San Marino High School, San Marino, California. It is of special interest that it was completed on Thursday night, June 4, and presented to her teacher on Fray, June 5. On Saturday, June 6, Karen’s earthly life ceased as the result of a head-on automobile collision. Karen’s high school diploma was awarded posthumously at the graduation exercises of her class on Wednesday, June 17, 1959. Her brief life was a bright testimony to the reality of life in Christ.
Karen departed early in life “to be with Christ; which is far better,” we know from Phil. 1:2323For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: (Philippians 1:23). Who can tell, this side of the glory, the bliss that is her’s now of being with Jesus, that blessed Saviour, whom she loved, who once died for her. She could say, “the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Gal. 2:2020I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20).
Karen’s parting testimony is given here in the hope that it might encourage other young people to come out for Christ and to boldly confess Him as their Saviour and Lord. It is written of Abel of old that “he being dead yet speaketh.” Heb. 11:44By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. (Hebrews 11:4).
ML 08/15/1965