In March 2020, COVID restrictions were imposed on a great deal of life in the UK, including those allowed to be present at funerals. With only immediate family at James' funeral right at the start of 'lockdown', thought was given straightaway to recording something of his life. Geoff Thomas says in his introduction, that James "was well esteemed by all who knew him, well-regarded, self-forgetful and lowly in service". Being such, he would want all honour to be directed towards his precious Saviour, Jesus Christ. The aim of such a work was always to that very end. He loved his wife and family; he loved the work of the Christian ministry; but, above all, he could say, in words of C.T., Studd: "Only one life, 'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last"