Jim Downing

posted by Navigators on February 15th, 2018

“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green . . . ” – Psalm 92:14

We remember and celebrate the life of one of the pioneers of The Navigators, Jim Downing, who passed away in Colorado Springs this week, aged 104 years old. Here is a classic message from Jim from our archives, “Finishing Well.”

Jim Downing: 1913 – 2018

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.”

– 2 Timothy 4:7-8

The apostle Paul penned these words to his faithful son Timothy as the days of his life were nearing an end. For Paul, the end of his race marked the start of everything his life was given towards… a glorious reunion with his Lord and the crown of righteousness provided to him through Christ. 

These very same rewards were delivered into the hands of life-long labourer and Navigator #6, Jim Downing (1913-2018), who crossed the finish line and was welcomed into the presence of his Lord on 13 February 2018. While we’re saddened with the loss of such a faithful and fruitful labourer, we’re overjoyed with the fulfilment of his hope and the reality of his reunion with Christ.