I have never known another man like Rob Moll. His example as a husband, father, and editor inspired me to do what Jesus expected of me in those roles. He and his wife, Clarissa, have brought joy, love, and friendship to my wife and me among many others.

Last year we lost Rob while he was doing what he loved, climbing in Mount Rainier National Park. We will grieve the loss of Rob—who was just 41—for the rest of our lives, until we see him again before the throne of God. But if anyone was prepared for eternity, it was Rob, who wrote the book The Art of Dying when he was in his early 30s. Next spring a new expanded edition will include reflections from from Clarissa, a gifted and dedicated writer herself.

You’ll see her gifting on display in this week’s featured article, “Don’t Let 2020 Stop Your Thanksgiving.” She writes about Martin Rinkart, wrote the hymn “Now Thank We All Our God” in the same year that he led 4,000 funerals for plague victims, including his wife. If that doesn’t give you perspective on Thanksgiving amid COVID-19, I don’t know what will. This year I thank God for friends like Rob and Clarissa, who exude hope in all circumstances.