BJ stood between these same two women, at this same spot in 2005. The three of them also served here together in 2004. Pacasmayo, Peru with Suzanne and Laura!


I cannot tell you how great a privilege it was to serve with these two women this year. 2004 was the first year for all three of them to serve with Awe Star. Since then, Suzanne has served every year, and Laura has served each year but one.

The last two years, Laura has served side by side with me. This year, both women were selected as leaders on my team and did a great job.

Last year, standing in this spot with Laura was of course bittersweet. This year, being here with both of them was emotional for all three of us. These two women are two of the three people from BJ's teams who served together both years. The third was my friend David Post who led the teams and now serves as a full time missionary in South Asia.

You do not forget the ones who have impacted your life in significant ways. God allows us brief moments of significance with those who will empty themselves into us.

These two women spilled all they had into the young women of our team this year and I am very proud of them. I cannot imagine going to the field without them or women like them.

We need to take time to thank the people in our lives who have poured into us relentlessly, for seasons past. They may not be nearby now, but with a little effort they can be found, and I know they need your encouragement.

Recently, I heard from a couple of students from the past who have done just that in my own life. The joy it brings and the satisfaction derived from a few simple words is amazingly overwhelming.

Too often we walk through life feeling alone and when people take the time to connect with us and even instill in us a depth in Christ we would not otherwise have, we need to let them know how much we value them. Their efforts to serve Jesus were never designed to get our feedback. That makes it all the more encouraging when they do hear.

The Lord often uses those moments at unexpected times in their own lives, when they are discouraged, or in need of someone to love them. Please do not be shy about doing so. For the receiver, it will be well worth your effort.

Suzanne and Laura are such a blessing in my own life because they are very real people who struggle in life and still point others towards Jesus. I know He has recognized their efforts, and I know others have as well.

When real people who suffer and struggle in life continue to seek Christ, it impacts those around them.

Thank you Suzanne and Laura for being faithful to our Savior! I love you both!

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