I don't know quite how to express my gratitude to you for the love and support you've given our family over the past 5 weeks. People from our church family have prayed for us and over us, visited at the hospital, brought meals to our home, sent text messages, emails, cards, gift cards, and thoughts of encouragement. Many from OCBC have taken care of my own children and taken care of the children's ministry. I think most wives who have to walk through open-heart surgery with their husbands do not have 5 kids at home and two on the way. It's been a little stressful to say the least. However, what could have been one of the darkest, bleakest, and most difficult times in my life has been one of the most blessing-filled and rewarding. Nine years ago when we were praying about transferring from Oklahoma City to Fort Worth, my greatest concern was raising a family away from our families. Through prayer and scripture, God laid it on my heart that I should not fear such a thing because He would provide a family for us in Texas. And He has been so faithful to indeed do just that. Thank you for being our family. Thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus during a time that I so desperately needed them. Even though it is a long process, Robert is recovering very well. He is working from home for now, and the plan is for him to return to work on January 15th (3/4 time) and then full time in February. Our kids have adjusted to the new normal, and we have all enjoyed a wonderful Christmas season. We are looking forward to enjoying a little peace and normalcy before it gets really crazy in April when these baby girls arrive! We love you all and are so grateful for each of you.
In Christ,
Stephenie Stokes