Today we thank God for Mo.

Many will have heard that our very precious sister Mo Edmonds went to be in the immediate presence of The Lord Jesus Christ. Today, we thank God for Mo and her impact on so many as a channel of His grace.  Whether on a mission team in Ukraine or Africa, a friend in the powerhouse that was the ladies' fellowship, or simply a friend who was helped, you will feel the deep loss.

"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, 

as good stewards of God’s varied grace"

The Lord transformed and used Mo as a fruitful manifold channel of his manifold grace. Fruitful Christians are channels of grace; this is what it is about. Good sheep who know "The Shepherd" love people, whatever their situation. Mo was unassuming, so approachable, and genuine. She so easily became a deeply appreciated, loved and close friend. For my family and me, she was a great gift of encouragement in a tough season. She encouraged us to serve; she loved both the wider family of God and us with genuine compassion from God. Never underestimate the eternal value of such. 

In Mo's case, the impact was both local and international, missional and pastoral. There are those in Ukraine (South and North, young and old) and Africa, residential care, down the shops, in the day centre, and many other places who have been changed by Mo's friendship, fellowship and walk with Jesus. True Christian service doesn't look for a title, but looks for hurting sheep and commits to them, praying for their dependence on Christ. True Christian service does not look for an excuse ("I am more than 70 and a bit", "I have had cancer", "I have health issues"), but looks to God, who can do immeasurably more than we can think or imagine. Mo did everything without pretence.  What God calls us to, He equips us for. 

Please do pray for Den and the family, Laura, Sally and Blaze. As they remember God's goodness through Mo, may they also know the help of His presence in both profound loss and comfort. To be with Him is far better. God is good all the time, and so we look to Him as we thank Him for His goodness.