The Shepherdess Speaks...

 Joy of the journey

 And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Mark 10:13-15

 

Dangerous Journey

 

  Hope and encouragement comes to Honduras

In answer to the Macedonia call, “Come and help us,” my husband, (a pastor) and another minister acting as translator, arrived in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, known as the ‘murder capitol of the world.’ I didn’t realize how dangerous this endeavor was until I began to read about the rival gang crimes and drug related murders that are a daily occurrence in this part of the world. The two ministers had to travel this narrow road in order to minister to the Church of God in that community. This was a precarious journey over hazardous conditions where gang activity and gun fights are a daily occurrence. 

 The community  near San Pedro Sula

Preaching and interpreting

Welcome brothers!

Primitive transportation

The children

Rental car in font of church building. They had to roll the tinted windows down so they wouldn't be suspected as affiliated with a gang. It was quite warm with no air conditioning. The congregation had decorated the church with welcome sing, flowers and backdrop of curtains. We had a warm welcome.

Ministering in a dark land

Two babies

The shower

Here we are... in answer to the call

This little guy sat next to Wright each evening

The cook stove. Everyone thank the Lord for your nice stove!

God bless you and keep you in His love and care!

Pastor Carlos, Ellie, and family

"Abiga"

Alexandria Noel graduates from high school

 

When she was learning to talk, she called herself “Abiga.” As her Grammy, Alexandria (her given name) will always be “Abiga” to me, that darling little girl who brought such comfort and joy into our lives. Now, off to college and a future already given into God’s hands. How blessed we feel to know she has chosen to serve God in her youth. She is just as sweet as she is beautiful. High on the list of Andria’s accomplishments are her musical talent as a pianist and her journalistic contributions for the Osprey Observer, our local newspaper. Our prayers are with you, sweet little Abiga!

If I could, I would freeze my grandchildren in time at about three years and keep them there forever. At three, we have moved past the diapers, nursing, sleepless nights, and have stored all the baby paraphernalia that helped us survive those first few years.

The delight and wonder of a child’s world is marvelous to behold. It makes us feel young again too; just watching our toddlers experience life and all the new and exciting things that have become mundane and ordinary to us grownups. For them, life is simple, joyous, energizing, and carefree. Don’t you think this is how God intended for us to experience the abundant life He offers? Oh Lord… help me to simplify and see the world through child-like eyes!

"Abiga"

The Shepherdess Remembers...

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

LIFE’S PRECIOUS GIFTS

     We feel its warmth, its softening influence....however forgetful we have been, however much we have taken for granted life’s precious gifts, we are conscious of wistful memories that surge out of the past,  the sweet tender poignant fragrances of love. Nothing that has been said, nothing that could be said, would be eloquent enough, expressive enough, or adequate to make articulate that peculiar emotion we feel to our mothers. Peter Marshall

 Springtime

 My mother, Margaret, on the left and grandmother Joanna on the right

So many years have passed since we laid Mom to rest beneath the moss and ferns. I realize now that I will never stop missing her, never stop wishing for one more talk, one more hello and one more glimpse of her her dear face. Someday...we will meet again.

Elizabeth & Arthur on right, Samuel on left

 

What is a lady?

    A great lady is always a lady—no matter where she is or what she is doing. She dresses like a lady; modestly, but with elegance and taste. She behaves like a lady in every circumstance; dignified but never starchy or prudish. She shows compassion, but never compromises her standards.

    A lady is gentle, yet firm, respectful of all, but martyr for none. She is a loving wife, a devoted mother, a loyal friend, and a credit to all who may know her. She is the standard bearer for every woman in every age and of every culture. She is both the embodiment and the true personification of God's plan for womanhood.   

-Ruth Carmichael Ellinger