On Sunday, April 26, Dean Kluss gave our communion meditation at our church service. He is a farmer south of Clarion, a second career. He served in the United States Navy, retiring after a successful career in the military.

His meditation was titled

"Who's Packing Your Parachute?"

He started his thoughts by naming: 

Parachute Rigger Second Class Michael Schneier; Parachute Rigger Third Class John Hartel; Parachute Rigger Third Class Rebecca Duffy

"On April 17, 1996 - 19 years and 9 days ago - Pilot Ross Slavin and I (Kluss was a Lieutenant in the USN at the time) ejected from our F-14B, after experiencing a flight control malfunction, after patterning at Naval Air Station Oceana.

"It was less than perfect ejection scenario - with the aircraft between 800 - 1200 feet and rolling to the left, approaching 80 degree angle of bank, and at a speed of approximately 200 knots (230 miles per hour). The aircraft impacted in a wooded area on the air base and everyone walked away uninjured.

"Those three individuals (listed above) packed the parachute in my ejection seat, that saved my life that day.

"I tell you this story to get your attention; do I have it?

"Because I want to tell you about Someone who has packed your parachute, Who can save your life, Who loves you when you are unlovable to the world, Whose beautiful creation surrounds us each day.

"John 3:16,17 says: 'For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world but to save the world through Him.'

"That son is Jesus Christ....Who died on the cross for our sins.

"John 14:6 says, 'I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.'

"So my question to you is:  'Who's Packing Your Parachute?"

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