Then they shall leap as the calves of the stall; then they shall triumph upon Mount Sion, have palms in their hands, and receive the crown of honor, which God has prepared for all them that love him and his appearing. Mal. 4:2; 2 Esd. 2:42; Wis. 5:16.
Thus, my dear wife, comfort yourself with these words, and be patient in your tribulation, this I pray you; for though I am thus taken from you, think that we are not assured of each other; for we must all die, and the Lord has long permitted us to be together, considering the perils in which we walked.
There have been so many within our time, who had to leave each other, some through imprisonment, some dying of sickness. But there is no more glorious death, than that for the name of Christ; for not all are made worthy of God to suffer for his name, for this is acceptable with God, says Peter, 1 Pet. 2:20. Hence he and John went their way rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. Acts 5:41.
O my dear and beloved wife, it would greatly rejoice me if I could hear that you were of good cheer; for every time that I have written your or the children’s names, I could not refrain from weeping. Nevertheless, as regards my own self, I am of reasonably good cheer, the Lord be praised for his grace; so that I would not have thought it before my apprehension--so weak did I find myself. Hence Christ did truly say: I will not leave you comfortless; but I will come to you. John 14:18. Herewith I will commend you, my dear and much beloved wife, to the Lord, who is able to keep your treasure, and to give you an inheritance with all them who through faith in Jesus Christ shall be sanctified. May the Lord Almighty strengthen you by his Spirit. Amen.
Written on the 24th of April, by me, Jacob, your husband. Have this copied, and keep it in remembrance of me; for I do not know whether I can write you any more. Greet all the brethren and sisters much in my name, and all them that fear God; my children B. and his wife; your brother T. and his wife; J. and F. T. and F. his brother; J. de L. and his wife; and my friends at Kortrijck.
_Alle die lijden na den Wille Godts, wilt hierop mercken, Die bevelen haer Zielen den getrouwen Schepper met goede wercken._ (1 Pet. 4:19.)
JACOB, your husband.