"Thank you, Edgar County, but especially our “sheep” at Nevins Christian Church for welcoming us to your hearts and your community. Our time here—ten years on Oct. 24th—has rocketed by faster than you can eat a pile of mashed potatoes and noodles.
I would be lying if I said the last decade has given us nothing but vibrant health and sweet rest. We’ve wept bitter tears as we’ve buried dear saints, and asked “why?” to some gut-wrenching questions. When misunderstandings have arisen, I’ve even questioned our calling. Satan does not play fair. He loves to hit us where we hurt the most, and for us, that’s in the heart. Our heart is people.
Whenever we’ve been tempted to despair or run away in defeat, someone will say, “Thanks for being our pastor—you really care,” or “We’re so glad you came here.” Once it was a card to Kevin from an elder that read, “In twenty years of serving as an elder here, I consider you to be the first preacher I could call a pastor.” Now that will make you reach for your hankie, or in my case, a tissue.
Today it was a surprise dinner at Ryan’s, cards, and gifts that made us feel loved and welcomed all over again. How do you find enough words to thank people for that kind of precious love?
When we reminisce around Jesus’ throne in a city with no tears, the memories we’ve made in Paris, IL will be some we most savor.
Thank you again for loving us and letting us love you. We do love you,
Jeanette and Pastor Kevin Levellie, Nevins Christian Church
P.S. If you'd like your own five words, let me know and I'll send you some snappy ones!
Jeanette,
ReplyDeleteCongrats on such an outstanding achievement for you and your hubby. It is obvious you are doing something right by the wonderful outpouring of love and support from your congregation.
You made the 5 word task appear effortless in your sweet, thank you note. I loved the cute, happy picture of the both of you. Thanks for including it.
Jeanette, that was beautiful. Being surrounded by a congregation that loves you with the love of God, is a treasure one clings on to.
ReplyDeleteI am so eternally grateful for the people of God, and especially those that see the need for being a blessing to the Man of God and his family.
Jen you have such a wonderful way with words it's no surprise to me you've out did yourself with this task. How blessed the congregation is to have the both of you! I would love five words! I'll use them this week or next, no hurry on your end!
ReplyDeleteYou look so beautiful! What a sweet post. I'm glad they did that. So thoughtful and precious of them.... :-)
ReplyDeleteLove the picture of you and the hubby. Very special event! :O)
ReplyDeleteThank you for the sunshine that always comes with your blog. Your radiant smiles must do the same thing for your church family. I'm glad you were so honored.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun and lively thank you letter. Even with the trials you mention.
ReplyDeleteAnd what a beautiful photo of you and hubby!
Congrats on 10 years at Nevins Christian Church!
Great post and God bless you and your husband as you continue in the work of shepards. A job that is only fully appreciated in heaven, but be assured just the calling alone on your lives and your answer to it gains my respect.
ReplyDeleteLove the picture of you both! I was thinking how blessed your congregation is to have you two and how blessed you are to be surrounded by so many who love you:))
ReplyDeleteLove that pic! What a clever way to use your five words. And to share them with the people you love. Wonderful testimony!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your sweet note and magnet that came in today. Hey, I'll give the five words a shot.
Jeanette:
ReplyDeleteOver here in Indiana, ten years is a long time for a pastor to stay at one church. I love the picture, you both look sincere with your smiles.
Yes, give me five words and let me see how I can do.
Hi Jen -
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful thank-you note! I'm so glad you and Kevin were honored.
I'll pass on the five words at this time. Maybe when things slow down a bit or I get stuck for a post I'll come begging. :)
Blessings,
Susan
G'morn, Jeanette ~ What a handsome couple! I have been doing catch up & your posts, as always, create fodder for the soul, which I truly appreciate.
ReplyDeleteToday a friend is burying her daughter ... this is a very sad time for all, as these friends have given their daughter to Jesus. I ask you to pray for them, as they have a heavy burden to carry in the loss of their beloved daughter.
Thank you for your writings. Have a warm wonderful week. TTFN ~ Marydon
Loved your Prayer of Jeanette. Hey, ratchet up that measurement on the love scale!!
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of scales, glad to see that percentage rising on your WIP!!!!!
Love ya,
Patti