My love . . .

I can still remember the summer and fall of 2005 with vivid detail. It was a very exciting time for us as we were expecting our first child and could not wait to meet Caleb. It was also very sad as we had to say goodbye to our short lived dream of living in Saratov, Russia. As I look back at the timing of everything I am in awe of God's love and care for us each step of the way. We were filled with such mixed emotions as we battled fearing what the future held for us. I remember you asking the region if we could be placed at ECU due to the fact that we had our first baby on the way and family was nearby, because we knew the staff team AND they could help us transition into college ministry on a campus we already loved.

The region agreed and we were excited to be ministering to college students in pirate country. Caleb was born July 25, 2005 and you started working on campus in August. We spent the first night in our house on September 11. You were busy learning the ropes here and meeting with students & staff, preparing bible studies and talks. I was busy getting our home settled and enjoying the baby stage with Caleb.

Year after year passed by and our staff team got smaller and smaller. You and Brad have been carrying it the last 3 years and by God's grace it has thrived. Students are coming to know Christ, growing in their faith and making disciples on our campus. I have seen you grow so much over the last seven years. You have not only grown in your own intimacy with Christ but you have grown in the areas of teaching, true discipleship, counseling and leading people in our church.

I love how you lead our family and take the role of discipling me seriously. I have been challenged, stretched, encouraged and loved by you more than any other person in my life. Thank you for not neglecting us, your family, as you pour into so many other people in our church and on campus. I love you dearly and thank God often for giving you to me. Aside from salvation, you are the gift that I treasure most.

I hope that this book is an encouragement to your heart as you prepare to step into the next season of life. May you rejoice as you see God's glory displayed in the ministry you've had here in Greenville. I hope this serves as a reminder that ministry is hard at times but worth it in the end when you see God glorified. May you enjoy reading notes from your friends on the pages that follow . . . I love you.