I don’t remember when she arrived, but Sister Debbie has been a part of our Church for more than twenty years. She didn’t just attend; she got involved in whatever was going on. A single mother, with two boys to raise and a full-time job, Sister Debbie wasn’t looking to fill out her schedule. She didn’t grab the spotlight or try to take over, but was always there to help.
With teenagers of her own, Sister Debbie was active with youth ministries. Always available with her car, food or a helping hand, she stepped in where needed. Sister Debbie also sang in the choir, taught Children’s Church, conducted healthy living classes, and represented our Church at the Food Pantry. My daughter became close friends with both she and her son. My 10 year old granddaughter said, “I thought we were related to Sister Debbie.” Not just someone who goes to our Church; she became part of our lives.
Thank GOD for people like Sister Debbie! She is what Christians are supposed to be. JESUS said, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:15-16). Our Church is part of that effort. Why should we care? People will go to Hell if we don’t obey!
Our Pastor continues to preach, “he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry” (Eph 4:11-12 KJV). Why does he have to repeat that message? People don’t want to hear it! They think the “work of the ministry” is the Pastor’s job. Why should we get involved? JESUS commanded us to do it and there are few Pastors in a Church, but many more members. That is why Generals don’t fight alone; they need help to get more done! You have family, friends and coworkers who Pastors will never see. They won’t come to Church to hear “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16 KJV), so you have to tell them. You will be there when people need help and you can point them to JESUS. Just tell them what JESUS has done in your life.
Sister Debbie is moving to Arkansas for her family. Though we will miss her helping hands and the love she has shown us, she is on a mission. She has children, daughter-in-laws and grandchildren to fight for. Satan doesn’t care what victories you had in the past, he is out to steal, kill, and destroy and you and your loved ones are his targets. He won’t stop, so you can’t either. Sister Debbie will find a place she can continue “the work of the ministry.” Our prayers will go with Sister Debbie and her family, and our deep appreciation for her years of faithful service. Someone will have to stand in the gap she left behind. Maybe you will be the one “for the work of the ministry” and for your loved ones?
Wayne Lance (2018)