Sunday Sentiments

 

Yesterday I had the privilege of speaking at a women’s event called The Chosen Conference. I’ve been preparing for months and was excited to share the message God had put on my heart.

            Many things go into a day like this one. The planning committee had worked so hard to organize a day that would allow women to fellowship, deepen friendships, enjoy good food, create a fun project, worship together, and listen to teaching. They did a great job, and I heard so many women say they enjoyed the day!

            I enjoyed the day too – and part of the reason I did was because of all the hard work that Ryan did, largely behind the scenes, to make it run so smoothly.

            Leading up to yesterday, Ryan listened as I ran through my sessions, making sure everything made sense, and timing me to make sure I was on track. He helped me carry book boxes and a bucket of rocks into the church and get them all set up.

            And then when yesterday arrived, he started the day well by making sure I did not oversleep. (I may have missed my alarm the first time it went off.) He made my coffee, drove us to the conference so I could study my Bible while we went, and then he prayed over me before we got out of the car.

            He took pictures all day long so I would have what I needed for the scrapbook.

            He ran my slides while I spoke.

            He was the first one to meet me every time I came off the platform, encouraging me with hugs and affirming words.

            He ran the book table so I could talk to the women who came up to share their hearts.

            He took pictures for groups of women who wanted to use the photo booth, and he grabbed pictures of me with friends who came to the conference.

            He went to the car to get my flat shoes between sessions when the cute heels proved impractical.

            And when the day was done, he carried all the things back to the car, drove me home, and told me to put my feet up while he grilled dinner.

            I am so thankful for the way Ryan dives in to serve in ministry with me. I share these words with you today in part because of my gratitude. But I also share them because they’re a great reminder of how we all work together. Anything done for the Lord can only be done when people band together to make it happen. I may have been the one speaking to the women, but I could only do so because Ryan was right there with me, co-laboring.

            He blessed me with all he did, and I hope that I step up to do the same anytime I have the opportunity to help someone else.

            We all need each other. Let’s not forget that!