Godkins

“For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” -2 Corinthians 4:17

A lot can happen in a year. This has never been so true for our family. It was 1 year ago today that our youngest brother went to be with the Lord. It was a tragic day that left us feeling confused and somewhat lost. We are forever indebted to our extended family, friends, pastors and even people we had never met whose prayers carried us through that time of tragedy.

This past year has been a time of testing for us all. Through our sorrow and tears there has been a peace that only God could provide. A lot of decisions had to be made this year. One of those was that my family and I would draw closer to God like never before. Days after Israel’s incident, a friend asked me what we would do next as far as ministry and our lives. My answer was and still is this, “I will be about my Father’s business”. I know that Izzy would want the same for us because it’s exactly what he’s doing in heaven. Knowing my brother, it’s safe to say that he’s not dressed in a robe, playing a harp. He is actively doing the will of the Lord in heaven! How awesome is that?

I also know that God has given Izzy’s bride, Pele, strength that can only come from Him. Our family has been blessed beyond words to have her in our lives and it is evident why Izzy loved her so much. Pele’s faith in God has made a tremendous impact on us all. It is without question that their 8-month-old daughter, Luanei “Izzy” will know of the love that Israel had for God through the life of her Mother.

I’m reminded today that life is delicate. We are not promised tomorrow. The truth is that death is coming for us all. Sorry if that sounds morbid, or insensitive…but as a believer, my hope is not in this earth. Heaven is a real place. Israel is there right now and I look forward to the day that I can worship our Father with him.

We could go on and on talking about our brother’s humble attitude and character. However, if he were here today, he would want all focus and glory to be given to God. Israel did not live his life in vain. He loved God with all his heart and lived a life pleasing to our Lord. My encouragement in all this is if you’re living for yourself; STOP. Going to church, quoting a scripture, or even being a “good” person means nothing if you’re not living for Him. Genuine faith in Jesus and trusting in Him is ALL that matters. Let Him be your deepest joy!

Where you need to confess and repent, do so with great remorse. Where you are weary, be reminded that our strength is found in Christ. May you be stretched and moved towards Him today.

We love you bro!

-The Godkins

“The Perfect Birthday Gift”

“The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
~ Romans 6:23

Today our younger brother, Israel Allen Godkin would have turned 25 today, but he’s in Heaven now. Last night we gathered with family and friends for a bonfire on the beach to celebrate Izzy’s birthday. We sang, laughed and reminisced about this beautiful soul that had been called home to be with the Lord only seven months ago.We were once again reminded of how short life can be. His life, although seemingly cut short, was most definitely well-lived. His life was full of purpose and a testament of how great and significant walking with God is. His soft-spoken life greatly impacted his family and friends.
Izzy received the perfect gift. Because of that gift, Izzy still lives today and forever. Have you received this free gift from God? Are you living a life full of purpose and zeal? Reality check: we have ALL sinned and that’s why we need a Savior. We ask that you would sincerely consider your eternal future and receive this gift of Eternal Life which is found only in Jesus Christ. No matter what you’ve done or where you are in life, you can have the perfect gift! Heaven is waiting to throw a party for you as God and His Angels rejoice over one sinner who repents (Luke 10:15) Get to know the Creator! We know Izzy would love to see you with him in Heaven one day. After all, that’s where home really is and where the REAL party begins…Let’s go!
God bless ~ GK

Last night we recorded our first video blog of the new year. As we were recording we realized that it was Jan 10, which marked exactly 6 months since our youngest brother went home to be with the Lord. Then it hit us all over again; how we dearly miss him and cherished the moments we had together as brothers singing, laughing and playing. We were also reminded that Life here on earth is short and our tomorrows are never promised. This song, which we chose to sing, brought us comfort and encouraged us…when you feel like everything is falling apart, I know Izzy would gladly say, “Don’t worry, You will be safe in His arms”. This is dedicated to those who lost a loved one, especially this past year. Hope your spirits are uplifted and encouraged…love y’all, yo bruthas ~Ish&Ice

Rest in His Loving Arms-IZZY

Even though we have lost a loved one, in our devastation, in our frustration and struggles, we were reminded that He STILL loves us! And His Love, changed us forever…

On July 10, 2010, we suffered a tremendous loss, and Heaven gained an amazing angel. Israel Allen Godkin – husband, father, son, brother – left this earth to be with the Savior. And though we miss him more than words can say, as a family of faith, we know he is in a better place.

Though he spent only 24 years on this earth, he spent his days the best way any man could – serving the Lord. A godly man, Israel lived his life according to the Word of the Father. In all that he did, he did it for the Lord and he did it with passion– be it playing football, doing music with my brother and I, or simply loving his wife as a man of God should. Though Izz was soft-spoken and kind-spirited, the way he lived his life spoke volumes for his love and affection for God. For someone so young, he led a great example of what a follower of Christ should look like. I have no doubt that the impact and legacy he’s had will not be forgotten.

Family- our most treasured family heirlooms are our memories. Cherish your loved ones every moment and live each day like you’re preparing for Heaven. That’s exactly how our brother lived his whole life. He may have sang with us at many venues, for many crowds, but NOW he’s singing praises up above and in the very presence of our Lord…truly for an audience of One…doesn’t get any better than that

On behalf of the Godkin family, thank you all for your prayers, thoughts, and support during this time. Your love has shown that Izzy was a blessing not only to us, but to everyone who met him. When his daughter is born, she will know of her father’s love through our memories. She will know God through the life her father lived. She will love him, and we know that Israel will watch over her as her guardian angel. Israel’s smile could light up a room, and now he is shining ever brighter in Heaven.

As believers, our healing comes in knowing that the death of our earthly bodies is actually a celebration of our everlasting spirits going Home. There is no doubt that we will see our brother again, and soon. And what a glorious day that will be. RIH Izzy!

Your friend, your Brothers,

Isaac & Ishmael

#1 DAD- A Father who never stopped…By: GK

A Father who never stopped loving, caring, listening, or sharing. Whose heart has touch many, disciplined us always for doing wrong and would tell us afterwards, “It’s because I love you plenty”. Retired U.S. Army personnel, from Pastor to Father, to brother and friend. A man who would go the extra mile for his family to give us the best and no less. He is our Father, Allen C. Godkin.

Dad, there are times when we felt like no matter what we had done or accomplished, it still wasn’t good enough for you, could never seem to please you. But you made it clear through your actions and within your heart that love was there right from the very start. Times are fun when your around, especially the times we couldn’t go outside and play on the grounds. No nicer dad could ever be found! We remember the many talks we had together.  Since day one, you’ve had tremendous patience, gave us instruments to reflect God’s pure innocence, then rewarded us for our obedience. Oftentimes your family and friends would comment after how much we resemble you because of your generosity, kindness, guidance, hard-work and the obvious; looks and laughter. Even as we write this blog/letter, we’re in tears because we know you’re the greatest kind of dad any son could ever have…And we couldn’t ask for a better father. No one can replace you, Pop. Although we don’t say it often enough, we admire and Love you!

“Boys grow into Men, and Men into Fathers- And Fathering is the most important stage in their development” -David Gottesman

Thank you for giving us your best. The test will be our offspring be a reflection of this, and more. You never stopped being great, so we’d like to convey our respect and say, “HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!”

You’re our #1 Dad.

Love,

Your Sons: Ish, Ice, and Izzy

“Every father should remember that one day his son will follow his example instead of his advice.”

Honor our Soldiers: Memorial Day Tribute

This morning we were in Alabama and we were reminded by Pastor about the meaning of Memorial Day. Memorial Day gives deeper reasons to honor, celebrate, and recognize the Men and Women who died for American Freedom. Please remind YOUR friends the real spirit of patriotism. After all, summer wouldn’t be as fun as how summer was enjoyed the past years if no one fought for American Freedom. It’s not just having time off from work for family bbqs and parties, but truly honoring them today and always! It’ll make our gatherings that more enjoyable and PROUD to be AMERICAN!

“A Hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself” –Joseph Campbell

THANK YOU SOLIDERS!

God bless YOU, GOD BLESS AMERICA!

THE GODKINS

#1 DAD- A Father who never stopped…By: GK

A Father who never stopped loving, caring, listening, or sharing. Whose heart has touch many, disciplined us always for doing wrong and would tell us afterwards, “It’s because I love you plenty”. Retired U.S. Army personnel, from Pastor to Father, to brother and friend. A man who would go the extra mile for his family to give us the best and no less. He is our Father, Allen C. Godkin.

Dad, there are times when we felt like no matter what we had done or accomplished, it still wasn’t good enough for you, could never seem to please you. But you made it clear through your actions and within your heart that love was there right from the very start. Times are fun when your around, especially the times we couldn’t go outside and play on the grounds. No nicer dad could ever be found! We remember the many talks we had together.  Since day one, you’ve had tremendous patience, gave us instruments to reflect God’s pure innocence, then rewarded us for our obedience. Oftentimes your family and friends would comment after how much we resemble you because of your generosity, kindness, guidance, hard-work and the obvious; looks and laughter. Even as we write this blog/letter, we’re in tears because we know you’re the greatest kind of dad any son could ever have…And we couldn’t ask for a better father. No one can replace you, Pop. Although we don’t say it often enough, we admire and Love you!

“Boys grow into Men, and Men into Fathers- And Fathering is the most important stage in their development” - David Gottesman

Thank you for giving us your best. The test will be our offspring be a reflection of this, and more. You never stopped being great, so we’d like to convey our respect and say, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY”

You’re our #1 Dad.

Love,

Your Sons: Ish, Ice, and Izzy

“The greatest gift I ever had 
Came from God, and I call him Dad!” -Unknown.

We had an awesome time on the My Samoa Tour of 07 with our brothers the Katinas. You might have seen pics and heard about the events, but you havent seen what went on BEHIND the Scenes. From North Carolina to Tennessee, from San Diego to Kileen, TX. Check it out!

We are still hearing about earthquake warnings hitting the South Pacific but despite the news, we will continue to pray for the lost lives and their families, the rebuilding of the land and pray that thru this devastation God will turn the people back to Him -GK video tribute “He’s still Lord of our Nation”