It was a Wednesday midweek service, and there was a friendly buzz in the air as brothers and sisters greeted and refreshed one another. No one expected to hear the words that came from our brother and elder, Wyndham Shaw: “Brothers and sisters, I have some very sad news to share with you tonight. Our brother, David Silinsh, died unexpectantly today, the result of an accidental drowning.” After the initial shock, sadness sank in, and our tears flowed.David Silinsh January 5, 1966 – July 7, 2010
David was only 44 years old when he died, and had been a faithful member of the Boston Church of Christ for over 22 years. However, this is not what made David unique.
On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. I Corinthians 12:22-23
Some parts of the body of Christ are stronger than others, others seem weaker. This weakness isn’t necessarily due to sin, but can be due to other limitations - social, physical and/or health, for instance. Whatever the reason, this scripture says that “the weaker are indispensable.” - they serve a specific purpose and are to be treated with special honor (12:23).
By all accounts Dave would have been considered a weaker part of the body – not because of spirituality, but because of physical and social limitations beyond his control. Looking at Dave’s life, it becomes clear that he was “indispensable.” David was born with Asperger’s Syndrome. Doctor’s believed the disease would limit his ability to form deep, meaningful relationships, and that he would never be able to reciprocate either emotionally or socially. But any of us who knew David saw how the power of God and the love of family (both physical and spiritual) impacted his life. David’s spiritually shined bright, regardless of his limitations. His desire to learn and grow challenged anyone who spent time with him. His heart of tenderness and humility was evident to those close to him. He did not blame God for his circumstances but praised God in them. His goal was to make it to heaven.
David was an example of what is really important in life. He lived his life with joy and acceptance, in spite of challenging circumstances. We would all do well to look at our life situations through the same lens as David did – he let God determine where his focus was.
Jesus knew how much we would need each part of the body. Just look at the “types” he drew into his circle of friends – a demoniac, a group of lepers, short tax collectors, ignorant fisherman, and women with “issues”. He understood that each one of these individuals brought unique gifts, as we have seen and experienced with our friend and brother, David. Being the beneficiary of his childlike faith and purity of heart was a gift we enjoyed and will greatly miss.
Terry and Sue Folker
Singles Ministry, Boston Church