Joyce Miller

By Julie Overholt

Maybe you’ve noticed it too? The more I have the privilege of interviewing and writing about the women of SGC, the more I am coming to appreciate how very different we are – in interests, pasts, and giftings! Isn’t is just so neat? I love it – and I love how He draws us all together through unity in Christ! Please join me as we get to know Joyce Miller.

Joyce and her husband Tom have been attending Sugar Grove for approximately eleven years. A year after moving up from Mississippi, they were searching for a good Bible teaching church, similar to the church they had attended in Mississippi, when Becky Troyer invited them to SGC. They were so blessed by Dr. Perdue’s messages, they continued to attend while he was preaching.  Becky, her husband Mike, and family moved to serve the Lord in ministry in Maine, but Joyce and Tom continued on at SGC.

Tom and Joyce have been married for 57 years (!!) and wed at the Silver Street (now Silver Wood) Church with the first snow of November just starting to fall when they left the church. “We met at the 4-H Fair when our Holstein heifers were tied side by side. Tom was so kind, he carried the water pails for me. We didn’t have our first date until four years later. I was then a senior and Tom had just completed his 1-W service at White’s Institute – a correctional facility for children. I believe these two years were the best training, as he was always great in disciplining our children.”

Tom and Joyce lived in Mississippi for 36 years, raising their four children there. Two of their children are now pastors - one in Macon, Mississippi and the other in Meridian, Mississippi. They have a son living in Baltimore, Maryland, working as a salesman and serving as a deacon, as well as a daughter who lives in Pigeon, Michigan, who enjoys being a parish nurse. (“Something our church needs to think about also – it’s a great ministry!”) 

Their children are all in their fifties or near fifty years of age. “I tell them they are in the best years of their lives! You’re free from most of the worries of child raising, and still have a high level of physical energy. While in our fifties, we were able to do our best years of service. We opened our farm to thousands, mostly children. They were able to touch and learn about God’s farm animals. It was my mission to give the children something positive to remember for the day. When a child goes to bed at night and thinks of a good time, sleep will be more peaceful.” 

Tom and Joyce enjoy ten grandchildren and three great-grandsons. About every two years they enjoy the blessings of being together when they rent a camp and spend several days together as a family. Having grown children and now grandchildren, her advice for mothers is to be a mother who will be remembered as a PRAYING mother. “One Mother’s Day, while teaching a five year old Sunday School class, I asked the children to tell me something special that their mother did for them. Of course the usual answers of cooking, reading to me, and playing with me were given, but then one child said, “My mother prays.”

Tom and Joyce continue to work for the Essenhaus. In the summer, Joyce manages the mini golf course, while Tom manages the carriage rides. Then, during the months of October, November, and December, they work together making gift baskets. “We are happiest when we can work – and be – together. Tom has learned to recognize what colors make for attractive basket presentations. Now, he even notices when my clothes match!” :) Then, in the winter months of January through April, they continue to enjoy working together when their small herd of sheep have their lambs.

Joyce grew up in the church and it has always been very important to her. “I remember praying on my knees as a child and talking to God as if He was right there in my room. I do not remember a date when I said, 'Here’s my life, Lord, be my Savior,' but there have been many times when the Lord has been extra close and it is such a wonderful blessing to think of these times. When I have been very lonely in spirit, the Lord has used the song What A Friend We Have In Jesus numerous times. I’ve heard this song on a walk in a park when stopping at a chapel, as well as hearing a chorale singing it. These are just two examples.” 

A verse that is particularly meaningful for Joyce has been from Psalm 19:14: “Let the words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer.” When the meditation of her heart and her thoughts are on the Lord, the peace she feels has given her much joy.

Joyce enjoys being in Bible studies that include women from different denominations and in her free time she also enjoys reading and doing Sudoku puzzles. “Yesterday I noticed the first signs of spring flowers starting to appear from under the snow. Flowers are my passion. I like to always have at least one arrangement in the house during the growing season. While living in Mississippi, Tom would often stop along the road or field while working the ground, and bring me a bunch of wildflowers before he mowed them off. I believe the field flowers are the best.”

Some things you may  not know about Joyce include the fact that they had the privilege of mentoring many people in their home and on the farm. They started with Fresh Air boys from inner city Chicago in their first year of marriage. Then there was the time when ten boys got into trouble on their farm. (Really? Boys would do that?) *wink* For punishment, the sheriff made each of them do ten hours of work for Tom and Joyce. Another occupant they housed was a displaced older man from Poland who lived with them for several years. “He had suffered so much.” Many of the teens that they mentored only stayed for several weeks. “Through the years our guests have taught us many things. Each person came with their own issues, and as I reflect back I often think I should have said more to give them a desire to walk closer to our Lord.” 

In addition, something that you may not know about Joyce is while in the business of producing strawberries and blackberries, she had a weekly, fifteen-minute cooking show on TV, with a new recipe for these fruits being presented each week. “This was interesting and fun, but a lot of work! One time we even presented a seven course meal in the field.”

The best thing about being a woman: Being treated like a lady.

            Favorite season: Spring. Remembering our risen Lord at Easter
            time and all the signs of new life.

            What makes you laugh: Wholesome humor.

            Three words to describe yourself: Caring, organized, energetic

            Shy or outgoing: Outgoing

            Tomboy or princess: Princess

            Coffee or Tea: Tea

Oceanside or mountainside: Both! Oceanside while viewing a sunrise or sunset. Mountainside when looking up to see the splendor of God’s creation. “I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from whence shall my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made the heaven and earth.” Psalm 121: 1-2

Favorite meal: A meal surrounded with family or friends.

Morning person or night owl: Morning person

Favorite Bible character: Esther – because of her courage. And Mary, the sister of Martha, who chose the better thing by sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening and learning.

What brings peace to your life and/or helps you relax: Sipping a warm cup of milk while reading a good Christian short story.

Thank you, Joyce, for sharing your life with us! 

Ladies, I hope you enjoy the new life that will be springing up all around us in the coming weeks! And may the One who is doing a new thing (Isaiah 43:19) work in all of our hearts to renew our spirits as we encourage each other as sisters in Christ.

Julie

Jayme Yoder

By Julie Overholt

Polar vortexes are brutal, are they not?! Let’s all raise our mugs and teacups and toast to SPRING! ;) It’s coming…

This month I get to introduce you to Jayme Yoder. Jayme and her husband Carlin have been attending Sugar Grove Church for seven years. “What brought us to SGC? The shortest answer is Moise, our adopted son from Haiti. We knew we would eventually leave the Mennonite Church, but procrastinated for many years. When we found out we were going to adopt our son, we didn’t want to establish him in the church we were attending, only to leave later on, since he was already being ripped from his world. We wanted to create as much stability as possible and knew it was high time to get settled. We picked Sugar Grove based off of their theology printed on the SGC website.”

Carlin and Jayme have four children: Caitie (19), Logan (12), Moise (12), and Quinn (8). They lead a Connect Group, and Jayme also serves in the children’s department as a Sunday School teacher. She is currently supporting her husband, Carlin, as he serves on the elder board, as well.

Jayme grew up in Noble County. She and Carlin met on a blind date in high school. “I grew up in a non-Christian home, but I had a Christian grandmother and best friend. My best friend in high school was never ashamed of her faith and answered every question honestly, and showed me what I was missing. I feel God guarded my heart from my father’s non-belief. Seeds were planted throughout my childhood, and I became a Christian my senior year of high school – 21 years ago. I was pregnant and married a few months later.” 

Jayme and Carlin have celebrated 20 years of marriage now, and keep love alive with lots of hand holding and hugs. “I believe God allowed me to get pregnant to completely rip me out of my world/society and put me in church and my husband’s family where I could be mentored, and my faith could flourish. He even used my sin for my good!! My life has never been the same since. I love telling my daughter that she is the best thing that ever happened to me.”

When I asked Jayme if she has any favorite scripture verses, she told me she really doesn’t have a favorite, she loves ALL of it! “The following verses are great though, they make me feel so greatly valued, loved, and cared for!”

Matthew 11:28 Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 13:46  and upon finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it.


Matthew 18:10  See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.

Jayme is currently the director of The Music and Dance Academy and is also a dance instructor there. Dancing is one of her hobbies/passions. She also enjoys traveling, shopping, home décor, laser tag, photography, Bible study, working, debt reduction, and tax returns ("I love filling them out and tax planning. NOT paying them!")  Jayme is also planning to run her first full marathon this summer.

Her favorite season is Christmas. “It lasts so long! You can use it as an excuse to get together with friends and family, and there are so many gatherings! Décor! Gifts! Traditions! And celebrating Jesus! I love it all!” (The exclamation points aren’t mine, they are Jayme’s. I’d say she loves Christmas.) ;)

Jayme loves being a caretaker and being affectionate with her children. Advice for young mothers? “Enjoy the time you have, it goes fast! Who cares about a clean house with no dents and scratches! They won’t remember or care how clean it was. I love the Dr. Seuss quote, 'There is fun to be done!'"

The best part about being a woman: Fashion! 

What makes you laugh: Comedian Brian Regan and my family (full of corkers).

Three words to describe yourself: Stubborn, results-oriented, and silly.

Shy or outgoing: Outgoing

Tomboy or princess: Both

Coffee or tea: Either

Oceanside or mountainside: Oceanside

The perfect meal: Ruth’s Chris

Worst food ever: Octopus. It tastes just like you would imagine rubber bands taste.

Morning person or night owl: Night owl

I’d love to travel to: Israel

Listen, read, or watch to learn: Listen

Favorite Bible character: Esther

3 Things that bring peace to your life and/or help you to relax: Massage, hot drinks, and Bible Study Fellowship.

Thank you Jayme, for allowing us to get to know you better! May God bless your family abundantly as you continue to serve Him.

May He bless your day, ladies, with something to make you laugh, a sense of His presence, and the hope that comes from knowing spring will be here shortly! 

Julie

Karen Marvel

 By Julie Overholt

Hi ladies! Cabin fever yet?! ;) While you have some extra time inside these days, I hope you enjoy reading another interview from a fellow sister in Christ at SGC! I enjoyed sharing a warm drink with Karen last week as I listened to her answers, and even felt like a journalist with my pen quickly jotting notes as she spoke. It’s the little things… :)

Karen Marvel and her husband Bill have been attending Sugar Grove for the past 7-8 years. They made the decision to begin looking for a new church after attending a very small church that wasn’t experiencing much growth and had very little children’s ministry opportunities, which is one of Karen's passions. Their daughter Tammy and her family were already attending Sugar Grove, and Bill and Karen found a new church home alongside of them. 

Karen recently resigned after serving on the WoW (Women of Worth) leadership team for the past 3 years. (Karen, we thank you for all you have done to help provide fellowship and community for the ladies at SGC!) She has also been serving at the check-in kiosks for children’s ministry on Sunday morning and has been supportive of her husband Bill as he has served as an elder. Karen is currently co-leading the Monday night women’s Bible Study, and is also working with Pastor Matt as the Pre-K director for the children’s ministry department.

Karen grew up in Elkhart and attended the same church as Bill when they were kids. Bill had several years where he walked away from God and church, and it was during this time of absence that Karen became good friends with his sister, who eventually introduced Karen to Bill when she was 15 years old – a sophomore at the time, and Bill a senior. Karen recalled the first time she saw Bill in church and commented to his sister that there was a new, cute guy attending that day. It took a minute for Bill’s sister to locate the person Karen was referring to before she said, “That’s my brother!” :) Bill was pretty shy and Karen remembers that at first he interrupted telephone conversations between Karen and his sister as a way to talk to Karen.  They became high school sweethearts, marrying right out of high school, and on February 16^th will be celebrating 40 years of marriage! “My husband is simply amazing, he really is," Karen told me with a contended sigh. “We have learned it is so important to really make time for each other, which keeps our marriage strong. We also really balance each other out very well.” Karen says she has been asked if she regrets marrying young, and her response has always been, “When you find the best, why keep looking?!”

When I asked Karen about her children and grandchildren, she smiled and said she often wonders how to answer that question. Something you may not know about Karen is that she and her husband Bill have spent many years involved in foster care and still claim quite a few as their own! They have two biological daughters, Tammy - who attends SGC with her husband Aaron and their five children, and Missy – she and her husband have two children. They also have one adopted daughter, Candy, who is married and has three children. Their grandchildren range in age from 1 month old to 18 years of age. Bill and Karen have also fostered 24 children, including being the full-time house parents at the Baptist Children’s Home for five years. There were ten children at the home and they ended up taking five of them into their own home to finish raising them. Karen told me with tears in her eyes, “Tammy and Missy were 17 and 15 years old when we went to work at the children’s home. They were ALWAYS so supportive – calling them siblings to this day – and so loving. We are so blessed to have them as our daughters.” There are eight of those they fostered that they are still in contact with and call “their own.” “It has been such a blessing to be a part of so many kids’ lives over the years. The majority of our foster kids accepted Christ, some went on to attend college, and one is getting ready to go with her family on the mission field! Our two daughters were only 17 months apart, and I remember thinking that the baby and toddler stages would never end. But, they really do go so fast…my encouragement for young mothers is to hang in there! It will end.”

Karen has also been in the teaching profession for 32 years. She has taught from preschool  through first grade, including 10 years as a Pre-K director. She is currently in her fourth year as the preschool teacher at Clinton Christian School.  “My passion is definitely teaching. I have always said even if I wouldn’t get paid to teach, I would still do it. I love it that much.” Karen said she is grateful still for the friend that first voiced to her the gift for children’s ministry that she saw in Karen, a defining moment in Karen's life. “Bill’s parents moved to the Arizona climate for health reasons during our seventh year of marriage. We moved down there as well, living there for seven years. I became good friends with the pastor’s wife and worked as a teachers aide in her classroom. She was the one who saw the gift in me and encouraged me to pursue it.” Children bring the most laughter into Karen’s life as well. “People have told me I need to write a book someday with all the stories I’ve accumulated!” 

Karen was raised in a Christian home, both of her parents being first-generation Christians. “A godly heritage began all because a neighbor invited my parents and their four little children to church!” She herself accepted Christ into her life at 5 years of age while attending the neighborhood Child Evangelism 5- Day Club. Later, at age 15, she confirmed her commitment to God while at a church youth conference. “I realized at that time that not only had He died for my sins, but I understood the importance of, and wanted Him to be the Lord of my life.” 

When I asked Karen if she has any verses that are particularly meaningful to her, she mentioned that she has always struggled with anxiety. “I tend to take on the world’s problems. I care so much for people, and it was a good reminder for me while going through the discipleship class at church to hear that we do have a part, but God also does His part, and others need to do their part as well. I’m not responsible for their part.  I remember my sister (a mentor of mine) telling me once, 'I’m so glad my God is bigger than you.' It was so good for me to hear. God continues to work on that area in my life and I’m thankful for these verses that remind me to trust His direction and that He will never leave me!” 

Isaiah 43:5 Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west.

Philippians 4:13 I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.

In her free time Karen enjoys reading and spending time with her grandchildren. “Getting to be a mother and grandmother is what I love most about being a woman. Seeing them walking in Truth and growing is so rewarding!” Karen also enjoys celebrations! “I love all of the holidays, birthdays included, and probably go overboard to celebrate! My own mother enjoyed doing the same. I also celebrate back-to-school, and have always written a note and sent a gift anytime my grandchildren go off to camp as well. There’s always a reason to celebrate.” 

Three words that describe me: Compassionate, merciful to a fault, and anxious.

Outgoing or shy? Naturally shy, but God has put me into positions that have encouraged me to open up.

Coffee or tea? Tea

Tomboy or princess? Somewhere in the middle

Oceanside or mountainside? Oceanside. I LOVE the water. I’ve always said I should have been a mermaid!

Perfect meal/favorite food? For special occasions Bill and I love going to Eddy’s Steakhouse in Granger.

Worst food ever? Fish. (bad aftertaste for me!)

Morning person or night owl? Definitely night owl. Bill is the morning person, so when the grandkids spend the night I stay up late with them and sleep in while Bill gets up and makes them breakfast. 

I’d love to travel to: The Bahamas – or somewhere tropical. (I actually don’t like to travel – it’s really out of my comfort zone!)

Listen, read, or watch to learn? Watch. I’m a very visual learner.

A favorite Bible character? David. A man after God’s own heart. His life is a good reminder that even bad choices can lead to repentance and a restored relationship. God looks at the heart.

3 Things that bring peace to your life and/or help you relax? Reading, my toes in the warm sand at the beach, and being by water.

Thank you so much, Karen, for your service at SGC and for sharing your heart with us!

Ladies, love is in the air this month! Above all, may you become more aware and relish the deep, deep, immeasurable love the Father has towards YOU - as it moves you to become more like Jesus.  

Marie Schrock

By Julie Overholt

Hi ladies!

It’s time to pull up a chair as we enjoy getting to know another special lady at SGC: 

Marie Schrock and her husband, Bob, have been attending Sugar Grove Church for 36 years. They wanted to find their own church as a married couple and found SGC to be a place that shared their beliefs and had a large number of young adults attending – many of  which are still their best friends today. Their children, Mandi (Paulo) Juarez, and Matt (Abby) Schrock grew up at SGC and continue to attend SGC as well. Bob and Marie have been blessed with one grandson (who is, of course, the greatest!), Kai Matthew Juarez, who is a year-and-a-half old.

Marie served in various areas of children’s ministries as her children grew through them: Nursery, AWANA, Sunday School, and youth group.  She served on the Phase One Decorating Team and has also been a greeter for our First Impressions ministry. She supports her husband as a Connect Group leader and Elder Board chairman.

Bob and Marie have been married for thirty-nine years and have known each other since childhood. Their families were acquaintances when Marie and Bob were children, then the two of them re-met as teenagers, as their fathers worked together at DJ Construction. “My husband is a saint. He puts up with me! And loves me unconditionally. We love to laugh at ourselves.”

Marie originally grew up in Millersburg, IN (Fairfield HS). “I loved my childhood, growing up in a small town. We didn’t have a lot, but life was simple and fun. I learned values from my parents including working hard and being respectful and kind to others. My parents influenced me greatly.” Marie’s father passed away unexpectedly when Bob was in grad school and he and Marie were living in West Lafayette ( 2 ½ hours away). Her mother became a widow at the age of fifty. It was a very difficult time for Marie, and, because of the loss, they moved back to the area to be closer to family after Bob finished his schooling. God led them to SGC and Bob to his family business a few years later. 

After returning to Elkhart, Marie worked in a ladies’ dress shop, and, after the kids were born, was blessed to be able to stay at home to raise them. She later returned to the workforce to work in the kitchen at Model School in Goshen for five years. “For those who know me well, no I didn’t cook! I served, washed dishes, and cleaned up.” She currently has her favorite job of all – babysitting for her grandson, Kai!

Marie grew up going to church and loved Jesus, but really didn’t understand or grasp how one became saved until she went with a friend to her junior high youth group and heard the gospel communicated clearly. “I’ve always said that the Lord has to have a sense of humor to be so patient with me!” Psalm 46:10, “Be still and know that I am God.” is a favorite verse that Bob and Marie share. “Clayton and Kay Bjurstrom wrote that verse on a plaque and brought it to us in the hospital when Mandi was born prematurely. It still reminds me today to be patient and trust the One who is in control.”

When I asked Marie what some of her hobbies and passions are, she said that she is passionate about her family and being with the people she loves. Her birthday is on the Fourth of July, and her mother, who is now eighty-seven years old, still hosts a cookout and family get-together as well as all of the holiday gatherings. “My hobby has been my horses. I had five at one time, but only Sienna remains, and she’s not rideable anymore. I also board a horse for a friend, so I still take care of two. “ She loves interior decorating and remodeling homes. Seeing it all come together when finished is a very rewarding experience for her!

Marie's favorite season is definitely summer, stating that she hates to be cold! She also enjoys New Year’s Day, since that was her father’s birthday. “He’s been gone for thirty-seven years and I still miss him.” Something you may not know about Marie is that she is a vegetarian (sort of), and, when she turned fifty years of age, her eyes changed color from green to blue!

Slapstick comedy will make her laugh as well as when they show bloopers at the end of a show or movie. “I still love the old Carol Burnett show. Also, Kai is so funny and makes me laugh everyday! Bob is funny, too, and laughs at himself. I laugh with him.” :)

Quick questions:

Three words to describe yourself: Sensitive, hard-working, and loyal.

Shy or outgoing? Shy, until I get to know someone. Big crowds are overwhelming to me.

Tomboy or princess? Tomboy, although I do like to dress nice once in awhile.

Coffee or tea? Tea.

Oceanside or mountainside? Oceanside, but I do think the mountains are beautiful.

The perfect meal? Potato chips and iced tea! I would have them at every meal.

Worst food ever? Liver.

Morning person or night owl? Definitely a night owl! But, I have to get up early for horse chores and babysitting.

I’d love to travel to: I don’t particularly like to travel. But, I look forward to our one annual get-away to Grand Cayman.

Favorite Bible character? Mary. This time of year, I’m reminded and amazed at the level of trust in God that she had to have.

Three activities/things that bring peace to your life and/or help you relax? Unfortunately I don’t get to relax much. But, a chair on a quiet beach 1,500 miles from here helps. At home in the evening, it’s a bag of potato chips while watching HGTV or a good movie.

Thank you Marie, for sharing your heart and glimpses into your life. May He continue to bless you and your family, and thank you for all of the faithful serving you have done in your long-term attendance at SGC!

 

We are heading into the coldest month(s) of the year. I’m going to take a chance and say that there are others who would join Marie in saying they don’t enjoy the cold?! :) During these often dreary days when we will begin to “Think Spring," may joy, hope, and His grace shine brightly within your hearts. 

Sarah Smith

By Julie Overholt

            Hi ladies,

How blessed we are to be surrounded by so many sisters in Christ at SGC! Please have a seat with something warm to drink, (I even have blankets if you’d like to borrow one), :) and let me introduce you to Sarah Smith…

Sarah and her husband Adam have been attending SGC for about two-and-a-half years. They were looking for a youth group where their oldest daughter Mariah could plug in, and once they stepped foot in the building they immediately felt at home! Everyone was so warm, friendly, and inviting. The Next Steps program helped them to get plugged in and to find a Connect Group. They are now leading their own Connect Group, are part of the team of ushers, and Sarah is co-leading in the WOW Bible Studies.

Sarah was born in, and has spent most of her life in, Elkhart, IN, briefly moving to Illinois/Iowa as a child. She met Adam when they were both eighteen years of age and freshmen at Bethel College. They attended the same Speech class and kept running into each other outside of class. Shortly after they met, they began dating and were married eighteen months later. Ten years married now, they have three wonderful children: Mariah (12), Isabella (8), and their awesome little surprise, Joseph (6).

Adam has influenced Sarah’s life greatly, and she admires him so much! “We met when we were just kids and have truly grown up together. He has taught me how to persevere, trust, and praise God with my whole heart. Not just in the rough and scary times when the future is so unsure and you feel there is nothing to cling to, but to thank, praise, and trust Him in the good times, too. It is so easy to just go to God when the going gets rough, and forget to go to Him when things are going well! Adam models Jesus’ love for the church everyday with his interactions with our children and me. A great sense of humor, lots of laughter, and plenty of date nights keep our marriage going strong. My husband makes me laugh. He is the funniest person I have ever known.”

Sarah is a stay-at-home mom and homemaker. She hasn’t been employed in the working world in ten years and absolutely loves being at home with her kids! “Ever since I was teeny-tiny, I’ve wanted to be a stay-at-home mom. In Kindergarten they had a Career Day where you were to dress up as what you would like to be when you grew up and I dressed up like my mom and carried a baby doll around.” 

It was as a child that Sarah also accepted Jesus to be her Savior. When she was five years old she knelt in her bedroom with her father at her side and they prayed together. She feels blessed to have been brought up in a Christian home and in spite of a few bumps along the way in her spiritual journey, God has been good and His mercies are new every morning! Sarah’s all time favorite verse is Philippians 1:23-24. “I am hard-pressed between the two, for it is my desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better, but to remain in the flesh is necessary on your account."

"This verse reminds me of my son and how much God has used him to teach me and to bring me closer to Him. My little guy used to cry and beg to go to Heaven. He wanted to be with Jesus so bad, and finally my grandma told him he needed to stay here for right now to do God’s work. I found this verse during my Bible reading and it really brought me comfort and keeps me remembering that this earth is not our home and we shouldn’t get too comfortable with it. I desire to be as homesick for Heaven as my little guy is and Paul (the author of this verse) was."

 Romans 15: 5-6 are another set of verse that mean much to Sarah. “I love this verse because it gives me comfort and reminds me of how we need to come together (not quarrel) to honor God with what we say and do, and to praise Him no matter what is going on in our lives.” 

“I also need to add more…it’s impossible to pick just one! Proverbs 3:24.” Her parents posted this verse on her door when she was an infant and prayed it over her often. She now does the same with her own children. “I have such a passion for scripture memorization and teaching my children to hide God’s Word in their hearts. I think it is one of the most important things for a person to do. It brings you closer to knowing God and His heart, and you call upon the scriptures in any circumstances and are reassured we serve a living God who loves us so much.”

When I asked Sarah what her hobbies and passions were she responded, “Oh goodness! I love to craft, craft, craft! I just love to create and make things, especially with my kids!” She is now learning to knit from Maggie, who is an amazing instructor! She also loves to read anything and everything, including reading with her kids. Shopping is also something she loves to do as well as baking in the kitchen with her children. “A good mess in the kitchen means wonderful memories are being made!”  (Something people may not know about Sarah is that she is vegetarian!)

Sarah is happiest in the summer season when she can get a healthy dose of sunshine and vitamin D. The kids being at home with her is an added bonus! But, her favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. All of the tradition that comes along with it, a focus on all of the blessings in our lives, reaching out to others, time with family, and just simply the fact that it is a cozy holiday, make it an extra special time of the year for her.

In regards to being a woman, and relating to other women, Sarah said it well: “The best thing about being a woman is the makeup and the variety of clothes we get to wear! Guys just have a very limited selection. Seriously though, we have such an awesome responsibility to nurture and care for the people in our lives. God created us as relational beings and it’s very important for us to connect and reach out to others. Time goes so fast – too fast – and as a young mom it’s easy to get overwhelmed, over-commited, and soon you feel you can’t keep up. A good mentor and friend of mine told me when I first became a mom, 'There will never be a shortage of good things to volunteer for or get involved with, but you only have a short time with your children.'  I try to remember that, and when I get overwhelmed, I take a step back and see if I’m over-committed to things outside of my family. If I am, I cut out some of the extras, because I want to make the most of the limited time I have with my children before they spread their wings and go off on their own.” Well said!

Thank you for sharing a part of your life and heart with us, Sarah!

Three words that describe you: Shy, empathetic, and happy.

Outgoing or introverted? Introverted

Tomboy or princess? Princess…definitely!

Mountainside or Oceanside? Oceanside… (Let me put my toes in the sand and feel the warmth of the sun on my face, and I am one happy girl!)

The perfect meal: Kiran’s in Houston, TX – they have the best Indian food.

Worst food ever: Oysters. (Need I say more) J

Morning person or night owl? Night owl. (Do not wake me up! It’s not pretty!) J

I’d love to travel to: Ireland. I love the accents, the green, the castles…what’s not to love?

Listen, read, or watch to learn? Listening to a speaker or reading silently.

Favorite Bible character? David is my favorite. He was so human, with flaws and all, yet was a man after God’s own heart. That gives me hope! He went through it all, the good, bad, highs, and lows, and making poor choices by letting his flesh get the better of him. He was king but also had to hide in caves because others wanted him dead. His friendship with Jonathon was out of the world and I pray we can all experience a friendship like that. I could go on and on, but I guess to sum it up: he was a a real human, and weak human, and God still used him for His glory.

3 Things that help you to relax and/or bring peace to your life: Reading my Bible and poring through the scriptures bring peace. Crafting relaxes me. And, going on walks with my family is a perfect way to end my day.

May you all truly receive His rich gifts during this holiday season: peace that passes understanding, His amazing love felt deep within your hearts, and much joy in your life from the unending hope that He has brought to us!

Amber Wheeler

 By Julie Overholt

Hi ladies! There’s a chill in the air again, which means it’s time for a hot drink, a warm pair of socks, a blanket, and a comfortable place to sit while we get to know another Sugar Grove woman of worth. Yes, it is time for another season of blog interviews. I hope you enjoy getting to know Amber Wheeler, the wife of our pastor of children’s ministries!

Matt and Amber moved their family to Goshen almost six months ago when they answered God’s calling to come and serve at SGC. Amber currently teaches and assists in the children’s ministry department at church. She is a full-time stay-at-home mom to Joseph (3) and James (1) and loves it!

Amber originally grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, living in the same house up until she left for college! In September of 2004, she was student teaching in Matt’s hometown and lived at a Bed & Breakfast for the ten weeks that she was working at the school. While in town, Amber went to church with the owners of the B & B. Matt was the children’s pastor at their church, but was also teaching an adult small group. Amber was placed into his small group on her first Sunday and thought it was a God-match from the first time she laid eyes on him! :) 

They were married in June of 2007 and she loves married life. “What keeps the fire going in the Wheeler house is, of course, our same interests and passions. Since one of those is Christ, our personal relationship with Him is the main thing that draws us together as one. I would say staying in tune with each other is the other sticky ingredient! Consistently asking each other the tough questions and being there to listen with compassion. Also, finding time to be a couple rather than strictly parents is also big! All of this is easier said than done, and if and when it is, along with Christ’s love within each of us (because of staying connected to the Vine) the home is then able to be a haven away from all the other messes of life!”

Amber grew up in a Christian home, for which she is very thankful. At age eight she was saved at a church camp. “I felt God speaking to my heart then that He wanted me to be involved in ministry of some kind. I remember praying to Him that I wanted to go where He wanted me to go, as well as be and do what He wanted me to. I was so excited to see what was ahead!” Her dad has always influenced her life greatly in displaying to her by example to show love to others no matter what. “He always tries to make people feel comfortable and accepted around him. I want to do the same so that it may cause a chain reaction in my boys. So many go around bitter and blind to those who simply need a smile as they pass.” There are so many verses that give Amber strength, but one in particular is found in Isaiah 55:9: “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” She says she is reminded to continually place everything in His hands when she remembers that his ways are higher than ours. 

The best thing about being a woman for Amber is being a help mate and mother. “I consistently have to work on both, but I love being a woman! The advice I would have for young women or mothers would be in a phrase I  just recently learned: Stay in your own lane and go with God gas – it’s the only way to ride! Keep your eyes on God. Ask Him to make you the mate, mother, etc. that He wants you to be. We can’t do it on our own – we expect our husbands to fix us and we can’t be the girl next door!”

Amber’s favorite holiday is coming right up! She enjoys celebrating Christmas for the Reason as well as the gathering that it brings about. Something you may not know about her is that in her spare time, she would love to be a professional organizer. (I’m first in line to hire her services!)  :)

Enjoy these last quick questions as we wrap things up:

What makes you laugh? People being silly and having fun! (especially my boys)

3 Words to describe yourself? Detail-oriented, relational, passionate

Shy or outgoing? Outgoing

Tomboy or princess? Neither

Coffee or tea? Hot water

Oceanside or mountainside? 50/50

The perfect meal? I enjoy most anything!

Worst food ever? Something with strong horseradish

Morning person or night owl? Both – but that is hard!

I’d love to travel to: The Holy Cities

Listen, read, or watch to learn? I like learning from somebody. I do like to learn from a book, but it usually takes longer.

Favorite Bible character? I can’t really pinpoint on favorite character – I would have to say Jesus! We definitely learn from our mistakes and the mistakes of others, but I find it helpful to have an example of how it’s done right!

3 Things that bring peace to your life and/or help you relax? Organization. People who try to make you feel comfortable in their presence. When I’m allowing God to be in the driver’s seat.

Thank you Amber, for sharing part of your life with us as well as your heart and hands in service to our children. We look forward to continuing  to get to know you better!

Julie Lewan and Marilyn Johnson

By Julie Overholt

Julie and Marilyn

I have a treat for you. Not one, but two ladies to introduce to you! A two-for-one special, if you will.  A mother-daughter duo that has graciously allowed me to ask some questions so that we might all listen in and get to know them a little better. 

Marilyn Johnson and Julie Lewan have both been attending Sugar Grove since 1983 when they began coming to church as a family, which included one brother (Eric - who died in a car accident three and a half years ago. Our deep sympathies for your loss) and one sister (Jennifer – who currently lives in California) in addition to Julie. 

Marilyn and Julie are both actively involved in various ministries at the church. Marilyn is part of the Maranatha Ladies Bible Study that meets on Friday mornings, a Life Group, Foodies Fellowship, and the newly-formed Divorce-Care Group that meets on Sunday mornings. Marilyn is currently single and her family has increased to include six grandchildren – one grandson (18) and five granddaughters (8, 9, 9, 11, 11). Julie is currently involved with AWANA children’s ministry, the nursery, and she does the bookkeeping for SGC. She also attends the Women’s Precept Bible Study on Wednesday mornings.  Julie and her husband Steve have been married for 13 years and have two daughters – Alyssa (9) and Abigail (8).

Marilyn is originally from Southfield, MI (near Detroit) and was raised in a very ethnic Finnish family (something you may not know about her!) Her parents spoke fluent Finnish. Marilyn was nine years old when her older sister, Nancy – who was thirteen at the time – led her to the Lord. She considers Nancy one of the greatest influences in her life in addition to her youth pastor, who encouraged Marilyn to attend Moody Bible Institute. Later, Marilyn and her husband spent twenty years in the ministry before she became employed with C&B Optical for another twenty years, retiring in 2009.

Verses especially meaningful to Marilyn are found in Isaiah 40:30-31. “Even the youth shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, but those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” NKJV

In her free time, Marilyn likes to spend time reading, knitting, drawing, and playing the piano. She loves the Christmas season – even with all of the hustle and bustle!

Some quick popcorn trivia for you now Marilyn: 

3 Words to describe myself: Quiet (except when I’m with friends or sisters), compassionate, and understanding.

What makes you laugh? I laugh at my own jokes even if no one else gets them! (Am I the only one smiling at this??)

Shy or outgoing? Outgoing.  I used to be quite shy, but not anymore.

Princess or tomboy? Princess

Coffee or tea? Both

Oceanside or mountainside? I love wading in the ocean, but I also love the mountains.

The perfect meal? Bonefish Grille or Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. (but I really like almost ALL restaurants)

Worst food ever? Fresh oysters…had a bad experience.

Morning person or night owl? Now that I am retired I definitely am not a morning person as far as getting up & out the door early.

I’d love to travel to: I would definitely like to go to England or Austria again. (with my daughters)

Favorite Bible character? King David

Three activities that bring peace to your life and help you to relax? Devotional time each day helps to keep me focused. Reading, watching movies, and eating out are relaxing for me.

A quote you remember your mom saying? “Many hands make light work.”

In her relationship with Julie, Marilyn has come to appreciate the large capacity Julie has to enjoy the good times that come her way. “I love to spend time with Julie and the girls. We catch all the moments we can! I love to have tea parties with my granddaughters. Julie has always been a special jewel and companion in my life.”

When I asked Marilyn for some advice that she could give to young mothers and those in the middle of motherhood, she wanted to remind mothers to spend quality time with their children and to truly enjoy them. “All too soon they will be gone and you cannot recapture those precious young years. Capture the moments when they share their hearts. And, try not to always be rushed.”

Marilyn’s influence continues to be big in Julie’s life as it was since she was a little girl. “I asked Jesus to be my Savior when I was five years old," Julie recalls. "I knew I was a sinner, that Jesus had died for my sins, and that He was the only way to be forgiven. My mom prayed with me at that time. She has always believed in me, encouraged me, and admonishes me when I need it.” 

Julie was born in Chicago, IL and grew up in Elkhart, IN. She and her husband Steve met while they were both a part of the Lighthouse Singles group at the Wheaton Evangelical Free Church in Wheaton, IL. Julie was working at the TEAM international headquarters in Wheaton at the time. “Steve is my best friend. We have been married for 13 years and continue to keep love alive by making time for our marriage. I highly recommend the Dynamic Marriage class offered at SGC. It’s for all marriages – great, just okay, and marriages in trouble.” Julie currently works part-time (a little more during tax season) for David L. Culp, CPA, PC in Goshen, in addition to doing the bookkeeping at SGC and another local church.

Verses close to Julie’s heart are found in Jeremiah 29:11-13. “For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Julie says, “In all the times when life was unsure, I have gone back to this scripture and have found comfort knowing that God knows the plans He has for my life, being reminded that I need to seek Him with all my heart and that in doing so I will find Him and His will for me.” Something that people may not know about Julie is that she was adopted by her mom and dad at six weeks of age. “One of the ‘plans’ God had for my life!”

Julie loves to travel and spend time with her family. When I asked Julie what makes her laugh she said her husband and kids do with their funny antics and great sense of humor! A bonus I’m sure, to spending time together.  A recent and favorite memory of time she spent with Marilyn was a trip that she and her sister took their mother on for her 70^th birthday. “She [Marilyn] had never been to Williamsburg and Washington DC and had always wanted to go, so my sister and I decided to take her. It was hopefully the first of many more trips we can take together in the future.”

More about Julie:

Favorite season/holiday? Fall – I love the cooler temperatures and the beauty of nature as the leaves turn to the brilliant colors of orange, red, and gold.

Three words to describe myself? Honest, caring, adventuresome.

Shy or outgoing? Shy (much more so when I was younger)

Princess or Tomboy? Princess

Coffee or tea? Tea

Oceanside or mountainside? Mountainside

The perfect meal? Any restaurant or my mom’s homemade meatloaf. “Yum, yum!”

Worst food? Liver and onions.

Morning person or night owl? Night owl

I’d love to travel to: Alaska and Hawaii

Three things that bring peace and relaxation to my life? Spending time with my family, a good book, and spending time with other believers.

What do you love most about your mom? Her honesty, her endurance through the trials of life, and her love for her family. I hope I can love my girls and sacrifice for my family like she sacrificed for ours!

I asked Julie to recall a saying or truth that she remembers Marilyn using as she was growing up, as well as something practical she taught her. “When I was growing up I remember my mom telling me that comparing myself to others will never do me any good. There will always be some that seem to have it better than me and some that have it worse. She also taught me to start small when tackling a large task. For instance, when de-cluttering a room, start with a closet or a drawer. Do a little at a time.” Wise words for all of us.

Well ladies, last week while in Goshen I saw six robins when I was ordering at Starbucks. Six!! It warmed my heart to see the hope of spring just around the corner. I do believe there is a light at the end of this winter tunnel! :) I pray you enjoy to the fullest the new life that will soon be blooming all around us and that your heart rejoices greatly in the celebrations of our resurrected, risen Savior who came so that we might live abundantly in EVERY season.

Thank you Marilyn and Julie for your time and energy to share a part of you with us!