My longtime friend Raeburn Cameron-Smith has passed from this life to be with Christ. We had a fellowship in the gospel for many years, for which both of us were thankful. Today was his memorial service in Australia.

With fondness I recall his biblical preaching, aimed at expounding the Word of God for our life. He also was a fervent evangelist, who spent many a day evangelising and handing out Christian literature. Raeburn knew the value of stories and how the experience of people may have an impact on the lives of others. He also was a man of peace, who suffered from adversity, bitterness and politicking in Christian circles.

Raeburn was a peacemaker. And longed for other people to have peace with God, and to have love among one another. I recall one day, as we were walking near the Tasmanian wilderness, we watched two cars stopping violently, and two young men jumping out and starting to fight, the one threatening to kill the other over a relationship issue. Raeburn stepped in, seemingly fearlessly, told them: "I am a Presbyterian minister, please shake hands now and make peace." Amazingly they did and each went his own way. As this so much characterized his life, I share with you a sermon of Raeburns on forgiveness (with thanks and credit to the PCEA Ulverstone).

Blessed are the peacemakers, because they shall be called children of God.

I am sure you will be blessed by Raeburn's sermon.