We've been friends with Chris and Janice for 10 years. Through those ten years we've spent 5 of them ministering together, and 5 apart. 2 years working alongside the youth dept at Gospel Baptist and then 3 yrs side by side at the church plant here in Ashland Ohio. We moved here to Ashland in 2010, and while we were in the beginning stages of church planting, we laughingly tossed the idea of joining us to them. They lived in Tuscon Arizona at the time. You know what? They prayed ... and they came. They moved across country on their own dime and came to Ashland. I dare you to show me a friend of yours that would do the same!!
We've spent the last 3 years sharing life together. We've shared homes, groceries, gallons of milk, pizzas, kids and church. I looked forward to Janice's impromptu morning visits with a fresh Starbucks in her hand for me. We would talk for hours and she'd change a diaper or two before she had to pick up her girls from school. Our kids were in the hospital a few times and they were there, at our house, taking care of our other children. Last minute. No worries. They were there. Shared many laughs over the awkwardness of our kids, and tears when a child was hurt or wronged or misunderstood.
It has saved my life having another ministry woman to navigate through this difficult church planting journey. To have her understand our struggles, share in them and also lift each other up when the other was down has been God-given.
Janice has been my friend through it all, through many years, distance and closeness. She knows my heart. I'm amazed at the incredible spirit of generosity she and Chris both manage effortlessly. They give without thought of their own comfort. They give before they've had a chance to sit down and enjoy what's been given to them. It's pure and honest and genuine. I've been blessed by that generosity far more than I can count. There was always Coke in my house!!
Their children are like my own daughters. I love their silly honesty and craziness. I love their quirky personalities and how they love back like crazy! They are precious girls. So smart and tender.
My heart is heavy and my eyes are swollen from tears. It feels so lonely now. Praying for the Lord to bless my friends, enlarge their witness and multiply their ability to bless the people around them. Praying protection around their children and their marriage. Praying for provisions to be met and food in their fridge. And a McDonalds coke for when times get tough. I only wish it could be me to bring it over. 
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