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A Tribute to Linfield Crowder
by
Ed Smelser
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Our attitude toward Israel has a strong impact on the heart of God. One of the clearest teachings of scripture is that God will bless those who bless Israel. Boaz stated that blessing to Ruth when he heard how she had loved and stood by her mother-in-law Naomi, who is symbolic of Israel in the book of Ruth.
 
Picture of Linfield Crowder & Ed Smelser in IsraelThis was a reward that I believe was also pronounced on our beloved Doc Linfield Crowder. “The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel under whose wings you have come for refuge.” (Ruth 2:12) Doc was blessed and was a blessing to so many because of the “full reward” that he had received. Doc was one of the continuing inspirations in Bonnie’s and my life. Bonnie was one of his many adopted daughters. He came and held meetings in the churches we pastored; my daughter’s favorite house guest (and ours too) was Doctor Crowder. And yet the best times were the times we spent together in Israel.

(Photo: Doc Crowder and Ed Smelser on the Mount of Olives)

 
Linfield Crowder was a friend of Israel. He knew every important site in the land. He knew things about the Holy Land that some guides don’t know. He had insights into scripture that left the Israelis speechless. He was an amazing guide, a gracious Tour Host, and powerful teacher and Israel was his favorite pulpit. When the paths of our tour groups crossed, we stopped to soak up some of Doc’s wit, wisdom and unique & qualified insights. We were always enlightened with tasty new food for thought.
 
Our last hours together were long conversations while he received dialysis. I was refreshed as I asked him to retell stories. He did not miss a detail, and he could only talk for a short time before he “felt a shout coming on”.  It was at the last session together with a twinkle in his eye he "smote" me with a mantle of anointing for the salvation of the Jewish People.
 
Doc Crowder was the most refreshing ministry to grace the churches I have pastored. He was a true friend with a wealth of wisdom that he dispensed only on request. His legacy will live always. God bless this Man of God, our friend, Linfield Crowder.
 
Ed and Bonnie Smelser