From the Pastor

Dear ones all,

     On behalf of our daughter Jessica and her husband Randal, thank you so very much for the prayers, cards and messages of support in the pre-birth death of our granddaughter, Alexis.  This has been a very challenging Christmas season for our family as we have experienced the anticipation of the arrival of twins, the sadness of the loss of baby Alexis Paige, and the joy of the birth of her sister.  Your loving support has helped us navigate these troubled waters, reminding us of the power of prayer and the indisputable value of being supported by the body of Christ.

     This has also been a season where we, as a family, have experienced the remarkable grace of God and His provision in many ways.  He was right there with us and two steps ahead of us at every turn and I am convinced much of that was owed to your prayers on our behalf.  God DOES answer prayer in amazing ways!  Here’s one example:

As soon as Jessica called us with the news that ultrasound could not detect a heartbeat in Alexis, I began the work of arranging our flight to Dallas .  American Airlines booked us on a flight leaving Ft. Walton Beach at 7pm and gave us the bereavement fare.  When we arrived at the gate to board the aircraft, we were shocked to learn that, not only were we the ONLY passengers on that flight, but that our flight that evening would be the last one in that time slot until spring.  I don’t know what God had to do with that, but his fingerprints were all over those circumstances and many more as well!

     Olivia Grace Johnson is doing very well and her mommy and daddy are pouring all their affection and energy into her care.  We are all grateful for your continued prayers and for being the church at its very best!

     Our hopes for 2010 are grounded in the faithfulness of God that we have experienced in the past.  May God richly bless you in the coming year.

With love and gratitude,

Pastor Don and Anita