For Miss Haley

(I am so proud of my friend Haley. Why? Because she is joining an amazing mission to Slovakia with her family, and is letting God direct every step she takes, whether it is in America or not. This post is dedicated to my sweet friend, who I may not see for many months, yet who will always be my friend and confidante.)

Well, Haley? It’s been over 10 years since I became your friend. Remember when we used to sit together in first grade and we would compare our math scores? Do you remember how we became friends? I remember both of us being absolutely terrified of dogs, and whenever someone brought their dog in for show-and-tell, we would run to the library and wait for show-and-tell to be over. I remember holding your hand at recess, playing dolls, and doing each other’s hair. I don’t think it took us very long to become close friends! I remember your dad taking us to church with him, and we would take our dolls and climb into the choir loft. I remember singing next to you in choir, and being absolutely thrilled when you were chosen as Becky and I as the teacher in Tom Sawyer. I remember growing up with you, and how excited I always was to tell you what was going on in my life, and learn what was going on in yours.

I know that we became so close so fast because of the common thread that runs between us – Jesus Christ. I have watched him work in your life and change you from a quiet young girl, to a beautiful young woman. I have watched God mold your heart for His purpose, and have laughed and cried with you through all of our experiences!

You are truly a young woman after God’s own heart. I watch you model the behaviors that God desires, and I see you worship him in everything you do. You have no idea how my heart swells with pride as I watch you take on new adventures. Sometimes I cry to God and beg him not to take you away from me, but He always reminds me that there are others who can be blessed through your sweet spirit and encouraging words.

I don’t want to share you with the world, Haley, but I know that God is using you for a great purpose. I will miss you more than words can say, but I am so excited to see what God is using you for. I don’t know where he will take you after you minister to Slovakia, but I know that we will always have Jesus in common, no matter what changes.

Thank you, Haley, for all you have taught me in the 10 years we have been together. Thank you for always reminding me to trust God and lean on Him as my strength. You have always been a great example to me, and I am so grateful that God has brought you into my life. I want to send you off with this note as a blessing, so that you may always know that I love you, and am so proud of you and your family.

“May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.” Psalm 20:4

“He is the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them— he remains faithful forever.” Psalm 146:6

God is faithful forever, and he has great plans for you. I love you more than anything in this world, Haley, and I will miss you every day you are gone. Thank you for stepping out in faith and following God’s calling on your life. Although it hurts to let you go, I know we are both striving for the same beautiful ending: heaven and God’s open arms.

I love you, Haley.

Your sister in Christ forever and always,

Molly