Please Keep Our Family in Prayer
// December 23rd, 2009 // Loux Family News
The letter below was sent out to our IHOP community on the recent loss of husband, father, son, brother, and friend, Derek Loux. Please keep our family in prayer as we grieve this incredible loss.
On behalf of the entire family, we thank you,
Tracie Loux
Dear IHOP family,
Derek Loux, who was such an important part of our IHOP family for many years, is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Early this morning as he was traveling home from Colorado, Derek was killed in an automobile accident when his car hit a patch of black ice. Derek had been in Colorado to receive more extensive training in how to minister to victims of human trafficking,
For years, this precious man of God has faithfully served his Lord and our Missions Base in so many areas, including helping pioneer the Forerunner Music Academy, where he served as director. Derek was part of the IHOP-KC senior leadership team, a worship leader in the House of Prayer, and a frequent IHOP-KC conference speaker. He has recorded professionally as a musician, singer and songwriter; including his albums Paper Religion and Fragrant Burning. Before joining IHOP-KC, he served as the director of IHOP-Indianapolis for four years.
Derek’s life passion was adopting and restoring orphans; he pioneered the vision of the Orphan Justice Center – a haven of restoration for rescued orphans. OJC recently become an official part of IHOP. His tireless voice for the weak and voiceless indelibly marked us all. How we will miss him.
Renee and the children will need so very much love and support, not only in these first weeks, but for many years. In the immediate, Pamela Stead will spearhead all practical care for the family. Please contact her (pamelastead@ihop.org) if you want to be involved in practical helps. We ask you to please give the Loux family (immediate and extended) privacy to grieve, and only go to the home if invited. There will be many ways to give – meals, childcare, home care, finances. More details will follow soon on how you can give to this precious family, as well as Memorial plans.
We do not grieve as those who have no hope, but oh how we grieve. For Renee, for children who have lost their earthly father, and for our family who has lost a marvelous comrade. Until that Day when He dries every tear…we mourn with the Loux family.
The IHOP Leadership Team
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Dearest Renee and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Derek.Please know you are in my prayers and thoughts.May the lord be with you and comfort you in this time of grief. My heart goes out to you and your family.I know its probablly hard to think about but your precious baby boy has his daddy.
I read about this in the Omaha paper. I never knew Derek. I thank our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the lives that He impacted through Derek. My humanity hurts for Derek’s family. My born again life is so grateful that Derek knew Jesus. Thank God Derek is saved.
Renee and family,
I’m so sorry to hear this. Derek and I were classmates at Last Days Ministries’ ICT in 1990 and we had a wonderful experience together. He was a mighty man of God and we will be praying for your family at this time.
Dear Renee and family—-Erin and i still cannot believe that this is true!! I’m so grateful (you have no idea) for the time you spent in Indiana. Your whole family is an inspiration to so many people. I remember Derrick once saying when he had visited Josiah’s grave he prayed that his son’s death would not have been in vain. I’m praying the same for his. What an incredible man of God!! We’re honored to have known him and his whole incredible family!!
I am Praying for you.
no words……….praying
Precious Renee,
We are standing with you in prayer… Derek’s zest for life will be sorely missed. I remember running around LDM and Deep Ellum with him in our younger carefree days. I will never forget his boisterous announcement of finding the “ONE” after a plane trip with you… We laughed, with joy, he found someone special enough to keep up with him! It was such an honor to be wearing that beautiful shiny emerald dress and watch you get married…
And now, my Dear, may Father’s love surround and uphold you, may you see the same glory that Derek is now seeing, and may you be filled with a joy that runs deeper then despair, as we expectantly look to another wedding… I have a hunch that Derek will be saving a special place for you right next to him. And then we shall look upon the ONE who loves us most. He shall wipe away every tear and finally, we shall be utterly free and healed.
Derek has had an enormous impact on my family. My husband, Efrain, is the legal advisor for Zoe FOundation, and it is really because of Derek’s passion for the orphans that we have become so passionate ourselves for this cause. God used Derek to light the match inside of us. We are shedding tears with you this morning. We pray peace for all who loved him.
We extend our deepest condolences to you in your time of great loss and sorrow. We rejoice with you that this precious man is now with his Savior. We are blanketing your family in prayer and thanking God for the ministry He did through Derek during his time on this earth, and the ministry He will continue to do through Derek’s legacy and through your testimony. We are grateful that you do not mourn today as those with no hope.
In Christ,
Todd and Jennifer Wright
Phoenix, AZ
i cannot express my sorrow, but i want you to know your family has been a huge inspiration to us, and i pray that his life will be like a seed, and in death will bear more fruit than in life! I know his torch will be pick up by multitudes…
Derek was a pioneer in our lives to adopt. We loved him for that and he will never be forgotten. As for the Grason Family, not one child will be adopted with out remembering the burden he bared.
im so terribly sorry for your loss. words really can’t convey… but our hope is in Him. sending hugs, rachel
On behalf of Eagle’s Nest Worship Center in Omaha, Nebraska: please know that we are heartbroken with you and standing with you in fervent prayer; trusting God to make Himself known right now in a tangible way for every single one of you.
I did not know Derek but was reading the paper and learned of this tragedy down the road from my home. What a remarkable person that gave back in so many inspirational ways. I am so very saddened to learn of your loss but know he is in the place that we all hope to be someday when Christ calls us home. Thoughts and prayers are with you in this very tough time! Ryan
To the extended Loux family,
May the Presence of the precious Holy Spirit and His peace be with you during this difficult time. You all are in my thoughts and prayers! Blessings, Lynda MacCall (fellow LDM alumnus)
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Derek’s life touched so many. May the spirit of Almighty God carry you through!
My prayers are with you and your family at this tough time. I did not know Derek But he sounded like a good man.
I have just read about your loss on my facebook and wanted to express my support and prayers for you and your family. Valton (UK)
May God envelop you in His profound Mercies. Derek’s life continues – both in the presence of his beautiful King and here, as the influence of this certain life resonates.
Dear Loux & Sasser Family,
I personally know what Renee is now going through. I lost my husband, Pastor Victor Borgia, in December of 1994. The mixture of knowing where Derek is and the grief of such a loss are so heavy that only God can carry one through it. What held me together were my friends and family and the words from an old hymn-I’ve taken the privilege of changing a few words:
Love Lifted Me
I was sinking deep in (grief), far from the peaceful shore,
Very deeply (hurt) within, sinking to rise no more,
But the Master of the sea, heard my despairing cry,
From the waters lifted me, now safe am I.
Love lifted me! Love lifted me!
When nothing else could help
Love lifted me!
All my heart to Him I give, ever to Him I’ll cling
In His blessèd presence live, ever His praises sing,
Love so mighty and so true, merits my soul’s best songs,
Faithful, loving service too, to Him belongs.
Refrain
The soul in (grief) looks above, Jesus completely saves,
He will lift you by His love, out of the (grieving) waves.
He’s the Master of the sea, billows His will obey,
He your Savior wants to be, (to lessen your pain each day).
When I look back, it was His Love that lifted me above all the circumstances that surrounded me – God has sustained me and now I look back on how He was the Father to my children. You will be in my prayers Renee. If you need someone to talk to, please feel free to call. I am no expert, but I can provide a listening ear. Love and prayers – Linda (Borgia) Sofa
In a world of false fathers, we have lost a true father, in a world of dark clouds we have seen a rey of light shining through, in a tangled mix of strings, we see a thread of gold shimmering the light of Jesus’ heart for orphans. Derek, you are with Jesus now, and we weep for heaven and home. Thank you for the little ones you rescued in Jesus Name, may we all do the same.
dear Renee and family,
our prayers are with you and our hearts grieve with the loss of Derek.
im so thankful for the time i spent with him the memory of talking him surfing will be with me forever. i wish we could have spent
more time together such an awesome guy!
our love and prayers, steve littrell and family
I did not know Derek, but he seemed like an amazing person with a beautiful heart and soul.. Im so sorry for your loss, I will keep your family in my thoughts a prayers. Collen, Kansas City
Dear Loux family,
I just wanted to share the only story I have regarding Derek, but it made such an impact on me. We were at the first Onething conference with some kids we brought with us. When we came to pick up the children, Derek said that the children had affected him so much during that time so that he was giving them all a copy of his CD. He was so real and genuine in those few moments. That memory has remained with me. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
God WILL get you through this. Knowing that Derek is with our Lord and Savior is an awesome comfort.
You are in my prayers today…all day, everything that I did for myself or my family, brought your family to my mind. And I pray and I pray and I pray for you… No words that I could write to you.. no song that I could sing to you would help…I know…But one day you will see God face to face and you will be able to understand. I pray that God will answer today every question in your heart…That He will cover you like a blanket…Oh Lord.. Kiss every tear from their eyes…In the name of Jesus I pray. ( I will keep praying for you, right here in Massachusetts)
I am at a loss for words but want you to know I am grieving with and praying for you all!!!
I was graced to know Derek at Last Days Ministries in Texas in the early ’90′s…….when he was a student at ICT, what a guy, child-like, passionate about everything! Our loss is heaven’s gain. The whole Loux family is in my heart & prayers at this difficult time. The Hope of Christmas-Jesus, Immanuel-God WITH us! & ALL it entails, be fresh manna from heaven for each of you today & in the days ahead. Jesus flood you with comfort! love & prayers from Canada!
Dear Loux Family,
We knew Derek when you were in Warsaw First Baptist Church, that was a long time ago. Our two older children,Lori and Bob were in the youth traveling group. They are older then Derek was but the both remember him as a spunky little guy and full of live. From what we have read today he was still that Spunky little guy grown up. Sooo sorry to hear of his death but he is now with the Lord. Our prayers and hearts go out to his whole family. We did not know his immediate family but John and Mimi and his brother and sister.
It is a shock. Steve one of my other sons, heard from a friend in Oregon about it and remembered the name and confirmed it with us.
Just from what we have read it would have been an honor to have known him. He has done such great work and a great job.
All will be remembered in prayers for a long time.Keep in mind that he is with his Savior and someday all will be reunited.
Love and Prayers to whole family, from the Warsaw Bradley Family.
This is for Renee… so glad we got to spend time with you guys this year and “see what this guy would be like at 30 years old”. We are all moved deeply by the loss but thankful to have been part of the orbit of Derek’s life and passion. We know that life is fragile, but the sudden loss is still like a tectonic plate shift to all who knew him. We love you guys.
Loux Family,
You have my deepest sympathy. I did not know Derek or very familiar with his music. But, as a minister of the gospel and sister in Christ, I pray for you. He is with the Lord he sang and talked about. God does all things well. May the power of His comforting spirit and love keep your hearts and minds as you go through your bereavement. God bless you and keep you.
I heard from a friend today that our former classmate has passed away. I’m saddened by this news, but am comforted by knowing he is with our Lord and Savior. I wanted you to know that his walk with God was evident even in our years at Wellsboro High. I pray God will comfort you during this difficult time, and that you will rejoice in knowing that you will see him again in heaven. Until then, may God surround you and bless you.
Melissa
Ever since I found out the news of Derek’s accident that morning – and then ultimately his death – my heart has been breaking. I’ve stayed awake at night just thinking & praying for all of you. This situation is so gut-wrenching, especially the timing. I can only begin to imagine the pain you must be feeling. Please know you are all so dearly loved, and my heart is deeply burdened for you. God’s anointing on the life of your family is to save the orphan, whom He so dearly loves – this situation will not produce orphans, it will produce true sons & daughters knowing the Father’s love.
I heared Derek’s testimony and teaching from the church in Kielce, Poland in April. And wanted to know more. Then I found your blog. His testimony, your family life testimony has been such an inspiration for me. I’m so grateful for that! Shalom from Poland.
Praying for you.
Dear Renee and Family …
My deepest condolences to you for Derek … I pray that Father God would envelope you with His presence, love and security on this Christmas day … the comfort of heaven in your home.
Blessings in our King Jesus …
Chris
North Bay,
Canada
Renee & family…
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you and the children – I know that Derek will be greatly missed by you and so many others. Deane is your father-in-law, John’s, cousin. We haven’t seen much of the Loux family in the past 30+ yrs but we have followed your ministry and family through this blog.
Deane & Jeanne Riniker
Derek stayed at our house in Colorado his last two days. I loved and respected him immediately. My heart is broken. My prayers for his family as well as Jonathan’s and all those who knew him. He was a true man of action and a true man of God.
I sent out emails to all my friends to keep this precious family in thier prayers. My friend Cynthia Gill sent me this in return, and I really feel that it is a prophetic prayer. “As we make inroads into the dark, dark world of human trafficking, the enemy is threatened and warfare increases. Our prayers are with this precious family. Just as God raised up many missionaries when Jim Elliot was killed (1956), So we pray He will speak to many to take up the cause of Justice inspired by Derek. As this seed has gone into the ground and died, may it bring forth fruit!!!”
Much love and prayer to you Renee and to all the children. The Sarmiento’s love you all very much and we have very fond memories of our time with Derek. We will miss him dearly.
I met Derek when he came to do sessions on Harp and Bowl and he also spoke about the fatherlessness while in Bismarck, ND in July. His passion and heart for the orphans and fatherless really hit home with me (my son’s father isn’t around). His passion and love for the Lord and for life really has forever impacted my life. I pray God raises up for missionaries that will speak up and take up this burden and change the lives of the orphans and fatherless…. We love you and are praying for you!
We are very sad to this news. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love from all of us, Reid, Beth, John and Jake Kelley
My deepest sympathy for the family. You are most definately in my thoughts and prayers over the coming weeks.
I discovered your blog through Reece’s Rainbow. We think your family is so special. We are praying. May the God of peace wrap you all in his arms.
love, Dave, Rachel,
Ellie, Sam(our son w/ DS) and Henry
I was shaken to the core as I am sure that many have been. I will not forget the things I heard Derek speak. When one suffers in the body..we all suffer. You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. Much affection,Jody
Words fail me as I read the news of Derek’s death. He and all the family are such an inspiration to me ;having adopted children also I know the legnths he went to bring each one home. Know that I am praying for the family that God will give the peace that passes understanding . How he will be missed here on earth.
My husband and I knew Derek through the Orlando HOP and were moved by his message to take in the fatherless. He also spoke into our lives personally last March when our newborn son, Asher, was living day to day in the Cardiac ICU. Derek’s advice on “staying un-offended through painful circumstances” is quoted below from an email he sent us:
“My advice in short – feel all the emotions. Feel the questions, anger, helplessness, fear etc, but don’t internalize, talk it out with the Lord. Tell Him how you feel. Let the pain fuel your prayer life. If you keep talking to God through it you will come out strong regardless of the outcome. At the end of the day, He is God and we are not. He is infinitely wiser than us and we have to trust Him. If we don’t, we are left with nothing but the tiny mud puddle of our own wisdom and strength. That will never get us through till the end.
Much love grace and Divine strength to you,”
Those words helped us in our time of trying and I pray they speak back to your family now. My heart breaks over his loss and I tearfully pray for peace and God’s strength to envelope your entire family. Derek was a great man, but I believe his death will make way for many more great men to take up this vision and bring restoration to many who are feeling hopelessly lost. Much love from the Bond family to yours. We are one body!
Matt, Erika, Joel and Asher Bond
Orlando House of Prayer
P.S. Asher pulled through, by the grace of Almighty God, and is a beautiful, healthy little boy!!! Bless the God who brings restoration!
I don’t know ur family personally but I do know that we are one in Christ. Just wanted to offer my prayers for you and those wonderful children of yours. My God will uphold and comfort you in Jesus’ name. Please try to be strong for I know the Lord will see you through. It is well with u in Jesus’ name. We love u Derek but God almighty needed you more than we do right now. God bless you and i love you,
Baltimore, MD
I was so sad to hear of your loss this week. Your family has been such an inspiration to me. Please know that you all are in my prayers.
My heart just goes out to your family at this very difficult time. We were in Kiev working on a Reece’s Rainbow adoption Dec 2008 and I was blessed by Derek’s blog. I’m sorry I don’t have any great words of wisdom but please know I am mourning with you.
Much love, Joy
So sorry for your tragic loss. Derek was an inspiration. He was clearly a man after God’s own heart. Continuing to hold you and your family before the Lord in prayer.