An Evening with Loving Shepherd Ministries

 

I’ve had people ask me if I am still speaking at events, and it’s hard to know how to accurately answer that. When I started working at the church, I knew that (at least for a while) I needed to cut back on saying yes to traveling to speak. I needed to keep my calendar clear for church work, and I also wasn’t sure how or when I would have time to prepare for extra events.

                I do have a small handful of local events this spring, and the first one was last Friday.

                Loving Shepherd Ministries invited me back to speak at a women’s event this year. Last year they had a charcuterie grazing table, and I showed pictures of that beauty here! This year they hosted their women’s night just before Holy Week, and they asked if I could share something that would quiet and prepare our hearts for Easter!

                Ryan accompanied me, as he also did last year, and I was so happy to have him with me. (He ran the book table for me, and I appreciated that!)

                This year’s menu was dessert catered by Sorinna’s Bakery, and it looked so good. Aren’t these beautiful?

                (I brought home one of the chocolate ones to freeze until Easter, and then I plan to savor every bite.)

                The event center always reminds me of a beautiful patio. It feels like you’re just hanging out with a bunch of neighbors, enjoying snacks and conversation.

                This year I shared about the Apostle John, and how his account of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection is just a bit different from the other accounts – because he saw it all through different eyes…the eyes of a best friend. I learned so much as I prepared for this and am grateful for how it has shaped my own approach to Easter this year!

                I enjoyed meeting new friends and seeing familiar faces from church and our community…and I even saw a very special friend that night! Char Binkley, the founder of Mid-Morning, was a guest in the audience, and it was a treat to see her and catch up. We haven’t seen each other since Jamie’s wedding a year and a half ago! Char was so gracious in her thoughts after the event, and I appreciated her encouragement!

                Thanks, Loving Shepherd, for inviting me back this year!