Passing on the baton of faith.

By Lynne Taylor – Administrative Assistant at Haven of Rest Ministries

No one ever forgets where they were when they hear the “C” word that changes their lives forever.  It was a Monday morning, and I was sitting at my desk with coworkers.  We were talking, laughing and greeting each other as we began another work week. Then my phone rang.  It was my doctor with test results. And I heard the word…CANCER.  Immediately my thoughts separated me from my surroundings as I was told I had two kinds of cancer – leukemia and lymphoma.  The rest of the day is a blur.  I don’t even remember driving home.

One of the hardest things I had to do that evening was sit down with my daughters and share the news. They, too, were stunned.  Over the next few weeks sleep was difficult.  My co-workers prayed for me daily.  I am very blessed to work at Haven of Rest and have amazing support, encouragement, and prayer.  Especially, Jennifer Hugg, Executive Administrative Assistant. She went to appointments with me and painful procedures.

This health crisis caused me to think about my loved ones, the organizations I care about, and how I wanted to provide for them.  Like many of us, I had put off updating my will for years.  Jennifer went with me to see a lawyer who was very compassionate and helpful.  I am so relieved to know my financial house is in order.  I have a sense of peace.  I also had the opportunity to include written messages to my young grandchildren for milestones in their lives such as graduation and marriage.

It has been more than two years since my diagnosis, and I am blessed to be working and enjoying life.  It is important for me to finish well, and part of doing that is leaving a legacy that reflects my faith and values.  I want my life to matter. I want to make an eternal difference, and I know I can do that by caring for my family and by supporting ministries that transform lives through the power of Christ. I want to pass on my beliefs and values to the next generation.

It is ironic that part of my job responsibilities are to coordinate the Wills & Trusts program at Haven of Rest.  I guess that is why I am so passionate about it.  We have updated our website to provide helpful information, and as a way of thanking our donors for your partnership and generosity, we are providing a platform to make a free legally binding will online through GiftWise.  If you have questions, feel free to contact Michael Solosky, Development Officer – Donor Relations.  May the Lord help us to finish strong, to keep the faith that has been entrusted to us and to pass the baton to the next generation. God bless you.