To the ones who paved my way to heaven.
To the ones who paved my way to heaven.
To the Pastor’s wife who brought groceries and diapers to my (then) single mother.
I wish I could tell you how that single act of kindness changed the course of our lives. My parents, my siblings and I, our spouses, and the FOURTEEN children that we’ve added, are all serving the Lord today as a result of your act of obedience. We continue to spread the love that you extended to us. You did not toil in vain.
To the Pastor who delivered sermon after sermon on God’s love, grace, and forgiveness and who ultimately delivered the sermon that led me to Jesus.
I wish I could tell you that the lessons you taught from behind that pulpit still live in my heart. And that they are now used to minister to my children and witness to others. I wish I could tell you that because of you, I still flap my arms when I hear “I’ll fly away”, and that my children give me the same goofy look that I’m sure I gave you. You did not toil in vain.
To the children’s church teacher, who read me Bible stories about King David, Noah, John the Baptist, and so many others. The one who poured scripture into me every Sunday morning for years, and who challenged me to memorize Psalms 23 for a piece of bubble gum.
I wish I could tell you that you inspired my love for children’s ministry, and it has allowed me to pray for and minister to countless children, further continuing your legacy. I wish I could tell you that I can still quote Psalms 23 to this day, and that I often recite it when I’m in a tough season. You did not toil in vain.
To the Sunday school teacher, who took time every week to teach a bunch of unruly preteens and teens, who clearly never studied their lesson. (I’m sorry about that!)
I wish I could tell you that I remember your dedication and patience. I remember your love of the Word, and your knowledge of scripture has inspired me in so many ways. I wish I could thank you for allowing “kids to be kids” and paint our classroom every shade of 90s neon imaginable. You did not toil in vain.
To the faithful woman of God, who despite her multiple illnesses and handicaps, praised God unapologetically until her last breath. (And who without a doubt is praising Him in glory today!)
I wish I could tell you that watching you praise inspired me, and when I lift my hands in worship I can’t help but think of you. I wish I could thank you for praying for me at the alter, and capturing God’s ear on my behalf. You did not toil in vain.
To the countless others who I watched serve the Lord throughout my childhood. Whether it was cleaning the church, cooking our Wednesday night meals, or decorating for VBS.
I wish I could tell you that you did not go unnoticed. Your service and dedication to the Lord, even in the smallest ways, made a huge impact on my life. Every time I watch the babies in the nursery, help break down tables after an event, or take my kids to a Wednesday night dinner. I think of you. You did not toil in vain.
To the ones who paved my way to heaven.
Thank you! You did not toil in vain.
