they were my joy and my heart’s delight,
for I bear your name,
Lord God Almighty.
Jeremiah 15:16
So when I think of folks who inspire me as over-comers two women immediately come to mind Verlinda Washburn and Chris Biggerstaff! Since my very first meeting with these women when I was studying God's word just under 7 years ago now they have been a source of inspiration to me and for everyone they come into contact with. They emulate Christ in words, deeds and Christ's love shines out when they smile. They make you laugh, sometimes uncontrollably. They remain calm in the stormiest of seas and always seem to have wise words laced with discernment, empathy and kindness that reach to your very soul. Through the Single Mom's Ministry at church I have been honored to work along side these two tireless servants. I have spent many hours with Chris by my side at the hospital where she kept the nursing staff in stitches and have probably drank more coffee and enjoyed more meals with Verlinda and Chris than with any other women I have had the great pleasure of calling friend. We have also shared tears while sharing our past with one another, prayed many times for ourselves, each other and so many others. We have served together for Women's Ministry functions, City Gate and Teen Camp Sign Ups but we all three had a heart for our Single Mom's Ministry. We cried, helped, taught, laughed with and prayed with some pretty amazing women who all were over-comers in their own right. I will never be able to thank God enough for honoring me in such a way as to have these two women be able to come up alongside me and walk such an amazing journey.
Right now our dear Friend and Sister in Christ Chris seems to be struggling physically with the effects of cancer and yet she is still considering others before herself. Her oldest Bryce is getting married this weekend and she has made it clear that no matter what is going on with her she desires for her son to keep all his plans- what an awesome example of motherhood and unconditional love. Her love for both her sons is apparent in every turn of her head, every sparkling smile she bestows upon them and every hug shared. It has also been an inspiration to watch the care her sons John and Bryce have given to their mom throughout this past year. They are by here side through it all and it is a beautiful example of love. This morning as I was looking for some inspiration I found Mandissa's newest song Overcomer and I will post the link below and I encourage you all to listen to it as it was truly encouraging and helped me to reminisce joyfully with my friends Verlinda and Chris this morning. Let's all be Over-Comers!
www.youtube.com/watch?v=z29olPjFbqg
