Whenever we need God most, we cry out to Him the loudest.

Through pain, anxiety, fear, stress, sorrow and death we ask God for help, deliverance, healing and strength. The prayers are always answered. But not always in the way we want.

Sunday night, a sweet young man, whose story touched the hearts and lives of many, went to his heavenly home. After two years of battling brain cancer,  10-year-old Rex Fleming’s fight was over.

Family, friends and the ACU community all prayed for Rex and his family throughout his fight with the disease. The prayers were answered, but not in the way many had hoped. That night, heaven gained a strong spirit and a sweet new face.

While death is never easy to comprehend, the death of a child seems unbearable. The loss of one so young brings to mind thousands of questions and doubts. Thoughts like “How could this happen?” and “This is not fair” begin to soar through our minds. And the only thing we can do is sometimes the hardest thing to do: trust God.

People sometimes describe death as “an adventure” or “just another part of life.” However you choose to look at it, the most important thing to remember is: death is not the end, but instead, a new beginning. Though that thought might bring little comfort, it does provide a glimmer of hope. God has a purpose for bringing each angel back to His Kingdom.

The ACU community is not unfamiliar with tragedy. While the ACU flag is being lowered to half-staff, we rise up and step forward to support each other.

Our thoughts now turn to the ones who have been left behind. Rex’s family, friends, classmates and teachers. There is nothing anyone can say to ease the pain. The only thing we can do is be there for them. A simple hug speaks when words cannot begin to express our feelings.

We want Rex’s family and friends to know this: we are here for you. We will not leave you.

Though Rex’s life was cut short, the example he led through life, and death, is one that has inspired many and will continue to encourage many more.