Kelly’s life took an unexpected twist one day during a church outing. It was her first year of college. The young 19 year old was persuaded to attend a church retreat with a friend who was too shy to go by herself. Although she had a lot to do for her classes, Kelly reluctantly packed her bags for the retreat, hoping to have a little fun. Not only did Kelly have fun, she met the man who would change her life. Kelly liked Tom immediately. Even though he was almost 10 years older, they seemed to have a lot in common and began a courtship. When Kelly turned 20, she and Tom were married in a small outdoor ceremony.

Kelly had met the man of her dreams, but the added expense of starting a new home coupled with high tuition costs forced her to quit college. Through the years Tom and Kelly started businesses and worked together. One day Kelly woke up with the resolve to return to college, earn her degree, and become a preschool teacher. She did so and loved greeting the shiny little faces that came to her class each day. Kelly taught at a public preschool and was able to share her faith with her students and co-workers. After a few years, Tom and Kelly were blessed with a boy they named Jackson.

As her son became ready for school, Kelly had to make a decision. Would she put him in public school or private school? Not happy with the public school in their area, the only other option seemed to be private school. However, private school was expensive and they were not sure they could afford it. Kelly decided to consider other options. She remembered that a neighbor was homeschooling her children. Suddenly everything seemed clear to Kelly. She knew God was calling her to add "teacher" to her resume as a mom.

Mothers have many jobs for which they are responsible. Because Kelly’s foundation is in the Lord, she is careful to consult the Lord in each of her jobs. She knows that her child, her neighbors, and others are watching to see how a Christian acts in all circumstances, including motherhood. Being a responsible, hard-working, and loving wife and mother is part of sharing her faith.

In addition to her many jobs as a mom, Kelly wanted to have an impact outside her home. She volunteers with community groups and readily shares her faith with others. In one instance, Kelly was asked why her son behaved so well and was so polite. She took that opportunity to explain where she gets her parental guidance—from the Bible. Kelly likes to open the book of Proverbs and share its practical advice with other moms. She wants them to see that they can find good training for their children in the Bible. Kelly encourages them to take their children to Sunday school and attend church.

Another area where Kelly likes to minister is with her neighbors. Because people are busy and can drive their cars right into their garages and close the door automatically, it takes a bit more effort to get to know neighbors. Kelly applies the extra effort to get to know those who live in her neighborhood. She and Tom have "adopted" an elderly woman near them. She is now considered part of the family and is invited to their holiday gatherings. When Kelly notices a neighbor in need, she quickly volunteers her help or the help of her husband. They have made an impact in their neighborhood by sharing their faith in practical and loving ways.

At night as Kelly turns out the light and climbs into bed, she thinks about her many jobs that she never thought she would have. She closes her eyes and smiles, content that God has brought her to this place and given her all she needs to share her faith and accomplish her work each day. |L

OTHER COLUMNS:
June 15, 2008 - A time saver who knows the soul saver
May 18, 2008 - Working by faith 24/7
April 20, 2008 - Motown, music, and ministry
March 23, 2008 - Be One Sportswear
February 24, 2008 - Fighting for the faith
January 27, 2008 - Healing for the Healer
December 30, 2007 - Parenting faithfully
December 2, 2007 - Building physical and spiritual strength
November 4, 2007 - Taking Christ into the classroom
October 7, 2007 - Changing lives through music
August 12, 2007 - Strategies for business and life
June 17, 2007 - Finding fulfilling work
May 20, 2007 - Faithful to his calling
April 22, 2007 - An unstoppable witness
March 25, 2007 - The perfect plan
February 25, 2007 - Teaching with faith
January 28, 2007 - Changing a community—one event at a time
December 24, 2006 - Business by the book
November 26, 2006 - Growing through life’s storms
October 29, 2006 - Giving God his best