A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. (John 13:34 NKJV)

My gratitude is well overdue, but as I considered writing about loving one another for February, I had to share my personal testimony.

In September 2022, horrific pain consumed me, bringing me literally down to my knees. Three months passed while I was unable to go out, and I could barely get around the house. During that time, my husband, Timmy, lost his mom. Our church and friends stepped up with visits, prayers, and meals.

After two epidural injections in December 2022, the pain backed off enough that I could attend church and begin walking again. In May 2023, I had a multi-level spinal fusion surgery with 2 rods, one plate and eighteen screws. My body is still healing from the invasive surgery, nerve damage, neuropathy, and restless leg syndrome. Once again Pastor Adam Williams and Buena Vista Pentecostal Holiness Church worked out a meal train. We don’t know what we would have done without them and the love of friends and neighbors who pitched in.

Many of you helped by praying. All across the world, people were praying. During some of my most painful moments, I’d post on social media about my pain, and a multitude of prayers went up.

I want to say thank you. I also want to speak to those who may be new to my story and ministry. Are you showing the love of Jesus to others? Does your church show that love?

February is a perfect time to examine our gift of love to others. It’s time we become the hands and feet of Jesus. I know I am mostly preaching to the choir, but I’d be remiss not to encourage others to share the love of Christ to those in need.

I’ve never experienced such love before, but I’ve never endured such traumatic events. Thank you for your prayers, messages, visits, and gifts. You were acting as Jesus to us.

Heavenly Father, richly bless the many folks that lifted up a prayer, sent a text, prepared a meal, or hammered a nail. Help us all be Jesus to others.