If my friend, J.B. Hunt, would have lived until this day, we would have celebrated his 80th birthday today. I remember his 70th birthday party and how special it was. This one would have been really special. Of course, Mr. Hunt thought he would have never died. He believed God would give him many more years. He was so convincing, we all thought he wouldn’t die for many years.

His death just before Christmas caught us all by surprise. Just days before, we discussed so much together, laughing and carrying on for a while during a lunch gathering. The next thing we knew, all of our lives were changed by his loss.

Great men like Mr. J.B. Hunt are so rare, and we miss him dearly. On this day when we would have celebrated his 80th, I just couldn’t let it pass without some words of reflection. His death represents so many in his generation who are leaving us and entering into the Savior’s peace in heaven. When we think of Mr. Hunt’s sweetheart, Johnelle, we think of so many ladies just like her who have lived their lives for their men, and today, they are alone. They did not ask for this assignment, but it has been assigned to them.

It reminds us all to pray, to pray for these sweethearts left behind. May God give them grace and peace on days like today. Days where memories dominate their minds and hurt breaks their hearts.

It also reminds us not only of the great things men like J. B. did and have left us in this life, but it also reminds us of the great need to pray for more men to be raised up to be like them. May God grant me the privilege to walk with more men of the stature of J.B. Hunt and others like him.

May God raise up more great leaders among us.