I was on my way to the doctor's office this afternoon and was a little early, so I decided to go by Christian High School in O'Fallon, MO. CHS is a part of the Living Word School District of which I was the administrator during the nearly spectacular growth period in the late '90's and early 2000's. There were several serving, people on the teaching staff at that time and I had the happy privilege of hiring a number of new teachers, many of whom are still teaching there. One of those teachers who touched me in so many special ways was Francie Blackwell. Francie is a cute, vivacious lady who now has children in and considering college. MERCY!
When i walked in the door, she saw me and ran, threw her arms around me and made me fee so special. She talked about those years when we were just getting started and how lives are being changed today because of that work. Francie is always so encouraging and appreciative. What a special servant she is to elementary students.
Several years ago, I took Bill Weber, a friend of mine , to see one of the elementary schools. Francie was having PE in the parking lot and the kids were having a ball. They were exercising to the following:
"Jesus is our strength and power
He'll be with us every hour."
Bill could not believe it. He cried. Here was this gruff. strong man in tears because of the way Francie was teaching those youngsters.
Through the years, Francie has sent me cards at Christmas, Easter, birthdays. She is a thoughtful, energetic, loving, caring kind of lady who comes into one's life all too infrequently.
Since we began Write About Jesus, I have had the privilege of meeting a young lady who personifies the same qualities of Francie. Stacey O'Hara shares her love in so many special ways. Encouraging comments on my blog, checking to see how I feel, obvious love for Christ - all these things spill over into my life and I am so thankful. I have been working on trying to develop "Willing Learners," and Stacey has shared some really good things that help me in that endeavor.
One of the very best things about WAJ is the caring family that has been created. I treasure that and the relationships I am privileged to share.
2 comments:
Well there goes the make-up
streaming down my face.
You are a sweet man John.
I will not forget your kind words...thank you.
I loved reading this, and what you've written is so true about both Francie and Stacey.
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