This tribute is being written and presented on behalf of the International Evangelistic Fellowship (IEF), Kichutip ward unit, Mokokchung town in honour of Rev. Lano Longchar, the captain of our ship. Rev. Lano Longchar was a man of God, a man for all seasons. A prince of preachers, known not only in our land but nationally and also abroad. He was a fervent soul winner, an editor, a writer, hymn composer, a leader, a spirit-filled evangelist, a charismatic preacher of our day. He was soft-spoken but when he drew the net, there was multitude of fish in the net. We had won thousand lost souls to Jesus through his powerful, persuasive preaching. He was truly a humble servant of God, a strong man humbled by the power of Almighty God. He was a faithful servant of his Lord whom he served so well.
Rev. Lano Longchar was a shining light which he got from the one who said, “I am the light of the world.” His life has been spent on the battlefield of this word fighting the fight of faith. Now, the battle is over and he has laid down the sword. I believe he has knelt at the feet of Jesus, our Great Commander, looked into His sweet face and said, “Lord Jesus, I led the people straight.” He is now with Rev. Rikum Ao, his dear and beloved predecessor, the first president, International Evangelistic fellowship, Mokokchung.
The pen that was his ‘sword’ upon the desk lies still. The voice that rang like a trumpet no more the air does fill. The feet now rest that always ran to do his Master’s will. The heart lies cold that once beat warm God’s mission to fulfil. Who will preach with content, power, and passion urging us to give our best for Jesus and His cause each moment that we live. Rev. Lano Longchar is the apostle of our day. He has fought the good fight, he has run the race, he has kept the faith. Now a crown of righteousness awaits him in the celestial city. And so we say farewell, for just a few more days until we blend our voice in eternal praise. He is on the winning side and his destiny is sure free from pain, free from toil and tears.
In real sense, we still have Rev. Lano Longchar, only his residence has changed. A soldier of the cross, a General I would say has finished up his last battle and is at Headquarters today. How new home – heaven and once he entered these gates of splendour, he would have no desire to return to his old tabernacle. His ticket was purchased and paid for by Jesus some two thousand years ago. He was to do no packing, he didn’t need to learn monetary exchange value, he didn’t have to be photographed and secure a passport, he didn’t have to worry about safety measures and connecting flight. He was escorted by the angels and his trip was nonstop. “Absent from the body and present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8. Within the hand of Jesus he is eternally secure. I believe the Lord commending him would say, “Good and faithful servant.” Matt.25:21. What a joy!
An old Chinese proverb says, “It is better to light a candle than to complain about the darkness.” S. Longkok Kichu IEF Kichutip Ward Unit, Mokokchung Town
