a view through annie's eyes

(If I could sing, I’d sing this one. If I could play the piano, this is what I would play! Believe me, I’ve tried, but in the great words of Popeye, I am what I am. So I write and I share the songs of my heart, but you should know if I could, I would. Oh, yes, I would.)

A few years ago in a Bible study, I was asked to write my own Hebrews 11 Hall of Faith. It was my own legacy of the faithful that brought me to my Savior. I’m telling you, it took me to a place of such gratitude for so many in my life, for all those who have gone before me that kept the Light alive, so that I could know this fullness of Life, so that I could share in the communion of the saints, and more importantly, so I could pass on the knowledge of the Truth of Christ. You know, blessed to be a blessing. We weren’t meant to be given this great Gift only to keep it to ourselves. My pastor once said we’re only a generation away from our country not knowing the Truth of Salvation. Of course, God will always protect a faithful few to be Torchbearers because His Son did not die in vain. However, it’s up to us to carry the Light of the World to others. It’s up to the remnant to remain faithful. We’re called, and we’re all He has. God help us all.

Today, I am going to a reception for my dear friend, Barbara’s, daughter, Patti, and her missionary partner, Georgia, who are missionaries in Brazil. Patti and Georgia have taken this call more seriously than any I know. They devote their entire lives to setting up churches and being Lights in this darkened world. Please take a moment and pray for them, for their continued journey, and for their safety and joy to serve. Pray also that today they may be fed spiritually and feel the fruits of their labor back among those they love so much. I love Patti’s mom dearly, and know why her daughter follows hard after Christ and wins so many souls for Him. Barbara is the kind of Light and Salt that this world needs. Once she asked me what I was doing now for Christ, and I had to say, not much. After I changed churches, I didn’t jump back in with both feet. Anyway, the point was, Barbara’s reaction: “Shame on you. You should be teaching.” She said it just like my mother would have, with the love of someone who cared for my spiritual growth, and for me. I can’t wait to go and visit with them today, and hear of miracles in Brazil. Please, if you get a chance, check out their website of the churches they’ve planted, and the stories of new believers. It will give you goosebumps. I’m not kidding. It is like the early church of Paul’s day down there, with so much opportunity in a dark land. So many people are hungry for the love of Christ.

There is a point I’m slowly getting to—Barbara would have to be added to my Hebrews Heroes of Faith list, and so many more since I wrote this a few years ago. Trisha, by faith, you go with me to the hard places that need answers and prayer. Cathy, by faith, you show me that marriage is a sacred covenant. Jean, by faith, you persevere through trial and still manage to laugh and to love across the miles. Donna, by faith, you show me authentic hope in a Savior in a fallen world. Beth, by faith, you give and give until the last one gets it. Jeanette, by faith, you show His victory over illness, divorce, and death. Barbara, by faith, you show me the love of Christ incarnate. Oh I could go on and on, but how rich my life is because of the faithful remnant.

In that same Bible study, we were supposed to end it by adding our own name at the end of chapter 11 of Hebrews. By faith, your name … And in the strong and living Name of Christ, may it be so.

Patti with her parents, Barbara and J.J.

Georgia playing a Portugese song for us.