“Jesus Christ is the resource beyond all resources, sufficient for the highest, deepest, and most ultimate longings of men.” -Rosscup, Abiding in Christ, Studies in John 15
Since the busyness of life can brim with activity, it seems essential at times to pause and reflect on those who have touched your life in special ways. Why? One reason is that we can look back on God’s faithfulness as He brings others to come alongside us, even when we weren’t aware we needed it. Another reason is that we can give thanks to our Father, for quite possibly you may not be the person you are without the other(s). For me, one of these individuals is Dr. Jim Rosscup.
Whether close or briefly acquainted, I’m confident no one can mention an ill word about him. To those who did not know him, he was a distinguished chairman of the Bible Department, Talbot School of Theology, for 22 years and later served as a beloved professor (& adjunct) at The Master’s Seminary for another 27 years. He is an author to several books, including his most significant work, a four-volume commentary set, An Exposition on Prayer. He was father to dear daughters, Dianne & Carolyn; and beloved grandsons, Zachary & Ben. Recently he flew away to heaven (Psalm 90:10) on November 5th, 2020, at 86.
In essence, how he lived out his days on earth is in many ways how we, as believers, should orient our lives today. There is much to glean. However, I would like to focus mainly on four areas: love for his wife, prayer life, humility & care, and sense of humor.
Love For His Wife
Dr. Rosscup enjoyed 51 years of marriage to his precious wife, Mildred. He quotes, “my Mildred was one of the fairest of the fare, pure quill, true quality, a class act, one of the truest godly people I have ever known closely.” He was so thankful for her that he wrote a book, My Wife-Her Shining Life, which is an account of her Christ-glorifying life and story together. 
This account documents her triumphs in trusting God for sufficient grace (2 Cor. 12:9) through almost continuous health struggles. He writes, “she had, from age eight, severe breathing blockage, part of a lung removed, and more than twenty precarious stays in hospitals. When I went to teach seminary class, I often did not know if she would be alive when I finished those hours.” Wow, what grace held him together during these ups and downs of his bride. And yet, he adored and loved her faithfully through it all. Sadly as our culture deems marriage as less sacred, may their marriage and commitment serve as a reminder to guard one of God’s most precious gifts.
Prayer Life
He was a prayer warrior! I recently spoke to his daughter, Carolyn, on the phone. She shared that he regularly kept detailed prayer journals to consistently pray and follow up with others (and rarely forgot a prayer request even if months or years passed!). He would also keep bulletin boards where he frequently added pictures of those to pray for. Carolyn remembers as a teenager coming home at night and seeing him in his rocking chair, where she knew he often prayed. Growing up, she shared that he wasn’t fearful but believed that prayer could cover everything, simply because the Bible tells us to pray. Because he believed God uses prayer to trust Him more, this “passing all to Him” kept him steady. Additionally, he never tired of studying God’s Word, for this was his lifeline to all his prayers. Up unto the very end, while in assisted living, he was working on more writings on topics like “Prayer Without Ceasing” and “How to Have a Quiet Time.” Oh friends, may His Word and prayer be our lifelong pursuit!
Humility & Care
Despite his demanding schedule, Dr. Rosscup exemplified a spirit of genuine humility and care. There were often times at my desk, while working at The Master’s Seminary, that he would stop by to give a friendly hello. He would show such kindness and compassion that you couldn’t help but stop what you were doing to enjoy the conversation, even if experiencing a bad day. Warmly he would ask questions to show concern and made you feel like you were the only person in the room. He also would leave kind notes of spiritual encouragement. He did not have an air of pride about himself or an “I’m too busy” mentality but showed care in the simplest of ways. Without a doubt, you knew Jesus Christ was supreme in his life.
“…and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.” Ephesians 5:2
Sense of Humor
Lastly, he had a zest for life and many interests! One of these interests was his avid love of western TV shows, songs, and stories—and he later wrote some western novels. Carolyn recalls many instances where he would be belting out these songs while slapping his chest, while she and her sister would laugh uncontrollably. I, too, remember times at my desk where he would sing a western theme or song enthusiastically, and we secretaries would burst out laughing. He truly was a joy to be around! Finding great joy in the interests God has uniquely given us can be a wonderful balm to our souls and others. They help us slow down and enjoy our beautiful Creator.
Dr. Jim Rosscup was a treasure to me and so many others. Learning how he lived his life and the legacy he left behind, I pray it will drive us to abide in Jesus Christ all the more. Through his love for Mildred, prayer life, humility & care, and sense of humor, we too can leave a Christ-honoring legacy for others to emulate.
On notes of encouragement I’ve kept over the years:
