I can't begin to express the joy Hannah has been in my life. As the saying goes...the teacher becomes the student...yeah...that happened many times in my walk as their small group leader. It has been an absolute privilege to be a part of her life. I have seen her go from this young Jr. high girl...to this amazing woman of God. I remember her sipping a rootbeer at Weber's...sleepovers @ my house...can't even tell you how many dozens of chocolate chip cookies we have made together...Cyokamo...van rides to Youthquake...and the one and only kid to get hurt when the church van wreaked on the way to Mexico. I remember always looking forward to our times together and how she would challenge me in my walk with Christ and my bible knowledge. I knew God would use her in a mighty way as she grew deeper in his word. I cherish our time. We are still close...even now as she prepares to get married in 27 days.
We were in the youth ministry for 15 years...there are some kids that came thru that we will always be close with. The deep relationships you build with them in Christ just never leave you. Even our Carterville kids from our first ministry...we still hold them close to our hearts. I am so thankful for our time in the youth ministry. I love watching God work in their lives as adults.
Today I had a shower for Hannah at our house. Here are a few pics. She is an outstanding blogger...go check her out here.
The Party Planners
Lydia...Hannah...Me....Allison..
Sarah...Hannah...Susie
Me & my Hannah Banana
Thanks Susie for asking me to lead that small group 11 years ago...it's been a blessed journey. I can't wait to be a part of Hannah's big day soon.
Wow. This is what ministry is ALL about. The friendships, relationships, growing closer to Christ. And as you touched on here, we who minister are often the ones who get ministered to. Great story. Kind of thing that keeps you freshly committed to doing HIS work.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful story. We were children's pastors for years and I love how we learned as much as we taught!! You are blessed!!
ReplyDeleteLove you, Angel
Steph,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for all you guys did this weekend! You truly are one of the most amazing women I know and am challenged by you on a regular basis to deepen my walk with the Lord and touch people for his kingdom. I love you so much and am so grateful for you, Matt, and your family!
What a great testimony Steph! I love seeing that. (Kinda makes us feel old at the same time, huh?) I have my own Hannah Banana and time is racing.
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