15 years ago, I was 11. 11 was a big year for me. I got my ears pierced, had my first "boyfriend", played percussion in band. It was a great year.
That year also holds special significance because of a woman I met for the first time. Liz Reimer - she was new to our church and effortlessly cool. She was significantly older than me, so I quickly looked up to her. She and my mom formed a close relationship, and eventually, she married my favorite youth pastor. What couldn't I like about this woman?!
15 years of knowing Liz has allowed for a lot of big life events. I've watched her marry Brad, spent time with their four daughters, and eaten Chinese food at their table. She and Brad were integral parts of our wedding, and for the last few years, Liz has been a close confidant and friend. Our family's years in Arkansas made for distance between us, but returning to this area allowed us to pick up where we left off.
And that's how it's always been. I can go months without talking with Liz, and then we'll grab coffee at Martin's and talk for hours. She has been an encourager, a listener, and a person of prayer for me. Even as I write this, I'm yearning for that coffee and time with Liz. The moments with her are always edifying. I come away from those conversations wanting more of God and more of his goodness.
Over the years, though, there are a few very notable things Liz has taught me. She is such a woman of humility and strength - I can't help but glean from her wisdom. I often find myself sharing what I've learned or picked up from her with other friends. Recently, I was talking with a friend about parenting. We were talking about the idea of modeling service for your children, and I immediately thought of Liz. Liz and her husband, Brad, have always been people of service and ministry. Sometimes this was in a formal ministry position, but most of the time, they simply invested in people around their neighborhood and community. As they serve, though, their kids are always a part of the action. They are involved in the planning and the praying. They hear from their parents the purpose behind this kind of love for others. I love this way of raising kids! Why wouldn't we teach them the ways of Jesus through hands-on experience? It's been so encouraging to see this family's desire to be unified in seeking Christ and sharing his goodness.
I've learned a lot from Liz about being a good mom and wife and human. She loves her kids so much, recognizing their gifts and spending special time with each of them. I've also spent time listening to her talk through the lessons she's learned in marriage - the wonderful moments and the times that really amplified their ugliness. Other conversations have led us to topics of friendship, prayer, and seeking direction. In all these times, though, I'm most refreshed by Liz's honesty and boldness. She is vulnerable and authentic, and she will invite you to be the same way. On top of that, she makes me so happy with her sarcasm and feisty attitude. I often feel at home with her because of her strong personality.
In all her strength and love, what I admire most about Liz is her trust in Jesus. We've walked through some similar pain, some not, and I've seen her abide in Christ in beautiful ways. She has encouraged me to draw close to him in pain and see his grace where I can. And she's allowed me to share in moments of uncertainty where I see her putting trust into practice right on the spot.
Liz is a beautiful woman. She balances the tasks of life well, loves her family, and physically looks good while doing it all. I am thankful for her friendship and her influence. I know there is much more for me to learn, and I trust that Liz will be a part of God's direction in my life. I look forward to many more coffee dates and long conversations.