ALEXANDER MACCUISH, Elder, North Harris
It was true of the subject of this brief obituary that “through much tribulation he entered the Kingdom”. He is now among those, of whom the truth declares, “these are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”
Alasdair MacCuish was born in Leacklee in the year 1884. We know not of his experience of passing from death unto life, but he spoke with affection of the labours of the late Rev. D. N. Macleod, Tarbert. He did not make a public profession until 1951.
In his private life he knew much of sorrow. His wife died at an early age, leaving a family of five, two of whom were infant twins. He brought up his family in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. He experienced further sorrow by the death of a young daughter.
Ordained an elder in 1962, he showed a willingness in all duties relating to this office. Occasionally he conducted public services. In speaking at Fellowship meetings, his exercises were much appreciated. He possessed an originality of expression. No “busybody in other men’s matters,” he knew the need of the Psalmist’s prayer: “Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.” In prayer he would frequently have the petitions: “Na leig dhuinn a’ bhi gearan ort, ach thoir dhuinn a’ bhi gearan riut.” This could be translated: “Do not allow us to complain of Thy dealings with us, but grant us to be making our wants known unto Thee,” thus showing that he had a large measure of reconciliation to the will of God. When he would be pleading in public for the Cause of Christ, he often had the petition: “Tha sinn feumach agus cha robh sinn riamh cho feumach” (We are in need; we were never so much in need).
When the last of his family got married, he lived alone. During these years, when I visited him, he showed a gospel spirit of contentment. It was pleasant to visit him. While health permitted, he maintained a keen interest in everything pertaining to the Lord’s cause among us. Failing health necessitated his leaving home for Tarbert Eventide Home. His family lovingly wished to care for him but he chose to stay in his native island.
His last days were spent in a Stornoway hospital. This man of God passed to his everlasting rest on 11th January, 1969, at the age of 84 years. According to his own wish, his remains left from Tarbert church for Luskentyre cemetery, where he awaits the resurrection of the just.
A. MACKAY.