Why I Love Those Ladies, Let me Count the Ways

As I stood in the kitchen making lunch for my man (who was flying home from a trustee meeting in Nashville) I was thinking about the group of women that I get to hang out with on Wednesday mornings. Honestly, I feel the word love is overused so when it comes to talking about my Wednesday morning Bible study ladies, love just doesn't seem big enough. I adore them. I cherish our time together.   They're magnificent. (and I'm not using hyperbole, though I've been known to a time or two) So, in honor of Valentines' Day and my adoration of these women, let me count the ways I love them:

1) They're studying the Bible. I love that about them.
2) They're showing up every week to talk about what God has been teaching them over the last week.
3) They're being vulnerable and sharing their lives.
4) They know what is said at Bible study stays at Bible study when it comes to private matters.
5) But, when it comes to matters of faith, they're learning how to share the important things with others.
6) They are encouragement to each other and to me.
7) They're asking questions and seeking for deeper answers.
8) They're believing God for those answers.
9) We're mixed ages and generations but we so get along and enjoy each other.
10) We can be serious or silly but it all comes from a deep affection that is rooted in the Father's love.

My heart overflows and these words hardly seem adequate. I'm grateful and blessed.

Serving the King,

Jeanette

Jesus, I Am Resting, Resting

I have always enjoyed this hymn since I first heard it at a Beth Moore Living Proof Live event in the late 1990s. This morning I found out that it was also a favorite of one of my heroes of missions and of the faith, Hudson Taylor. I have been reading a book about his life written by his son and daughter-in-law, Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secrets, on and off for months. Hudson Taylor was a missionary and founder of a mission organization to China from the 1850s to early 1900s. It's one of my favorite books of all time. I wanted my daughter to read it but told her she had to get her own copy. I'm simply unwilling to part with mine. (selfish, I know)

Here's the story: once while in London, Taylor received word that some of his missionaries were facing great difficulties. He began to whistle this hymn he liked so much and his associate asked how he could whistle when there was so much trouble. Taylor replied, "Would you have me anxious and troubled? That would not help them, and would certainly incapacitate me for my work. I have just to roll the burden on the Lord." (209)

Powerful words to read from one who is prone to worry. I love the thought, "just ... roll the burden on the Lord." And rest.

Enjoy the video!

Serving the King,

Jeanette