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Hi,
On Wednesday morning, we woke to the news of Dolly Parton's passing.
For many, I think it will be one of those moments where you will remember exactly where you were when you heard the news – she’s been one of those people who came across as truly genuine, likeable and talented.
As a teen I remember singing along with her songs on the radio. Her catchy 80’s tunes Working 9 to 5 and Jolene have been forever burned in my mind, along with a more recent song she recorded with Australia's own For KING & COUNTRY called God Only Knows. Dolly said the message of hope in this song touched her when she needed encouragement. It reminds us all that while others may not see the burdens people carry, God does.
Something quite profound Dolly once said was, "It doesn't take that much time to be kind. So why not spread a little kindness around?"
For all the fame, awards and success that surrounded her life, her words and the way she lived out her faith publicly, tell us more about Dolly than anything else.
She grew up in a large Christian family in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, singing gospel songs in church long before the world knew her name. Even after becoming one of the most recognised entertainers on the planet, she continued to speak about her faith and God's hand on her life. Vale Dolly Parton.
I believe that this gives us all an opportunity to ponder, what will continue because we were here?
Most of us won't become world-famous or have the Empire State Building lit up in our honour. But every one of us leaves something behind. Our legacy for someone other than ourselves. Sometimes it's obvious, but often it’s not.
Moments like these are always a good time to reflect and strengthen our resolve to invest our lives into what is most important, as Jesus put it, the greatest commandments: love God with all we have, and love others as we love ourselves.
I am so thankful for the many people who have chosen to sow seeds of legacy through this ministry too. If you are one of them, thank you. Your prayers, encouragement and generosity continue to make a difference. We don't always get to see the full picture of what God is doing through our daily obedience, but one day we will.
Today, as we prepare this edition, we pause to remember the people of Nepal as communities grapple with the aftermath of devastating floods and landslides. As families search for loved ones and begin the long road to recovery, may they know God's comfort, strength and peace. Please keep Nepal in your prayers during this difficult time.
Blessings, |
