As I read the note below, I was filled with so many emotions.  My heart grieves for Lauren's family and friends, but there's also something else ...

How reassuring would it be to KNOW that you will see your child again in heaven? 

So many teenagers leave their parents' home and begin to question their faith?  I was at a homeschooling convention over the weekend where this was being discussed.  It is SO important that your child knows WHAT they believe, and WHY they believe it before they are thrown to the wolves (so to speak) at our college campuses.  What an amazing job Mr. & Mrs. McCain did in raising their daughter to be so strong in her faith.  I pray that I will be able to instill that kind of strength in my own children ...

Lauren Ashley McCain, a 20-year-old homeschool graduate and the daughter of Dave and Sherry McCain of Hampton, was lost to us this week. Lauren, a freshman at Virginia Tech, was majoring in International Studies.

I've read Lauren's blog, I've read her obituary. I've read what others have had to say about her online.  I've read the thoughts and prayers of her family and friends--their pleas on Monday--while there was hope--for her to call home.  Two years ago at the HEAV commencement, I called her name and watched as she received her high school diploma from her parents.

One thing is clear: Lauren loved the Lord Jesus. Her life was a testimony to Him.

She wrote in her blog: "The purpose and love of my life is Jesus Christ.  I don't have to argue religion, philosophy, or historical evidence because I KNOW Him. He is just as real, if not more so, as my 'earthly' father."

In her graduation biography she proclaimed, "God is my passion ... I want to glorify Christ and encourage others to do the same."

In His love,

Anne Miller
HEAV President