I would like to introduce you to our friend, Missy Horsfall. A spotlight on Missy is LONG overdue! She is one of the 'rocks' behind Circle of Friends ministries. Missy is multi-faceted and multi-talented. She joined the Circle of Friends board in 2008, and COF has been benefiting from her ever since. Missy is the 'brains' behind much of our website. She manages the blog which includes her personal insights and offerings as she writes about what is on her heart. She also helps to produce and to record the radio programming done by COF. Missy headed up the Circle of Friends devotional book project which resulted in publication. She has allowed God to use her giftedness throughout her years and experiences of life. I want to share more about her with you!

I first met Missy years ago when our children were small. Missy has been married to Ned for 31 years. They are the parents of three grown children, all of whom are married, and the grandparents of one adorable baby girl. Missy worked in the banking industry for 13 years and as a pastor's wife for over 20 years. She co-authored the book Double Honor (Waterbrook Press 2002), and it is a GREAT read. I had to make myself STOP reading it, or I would have gone from beginning to end in one sitting!

When Missy was little, she wanted to grow up to be an Equestrian, specifically a three-day eventer, jumping horses. She grew up with the childhood nicknames of M.E. (emy), Miss Em (which I love!), and the dreaded "Lula-Belle"! During her 6^th grade year, she attended a missionary school in Taiwan. Her dad was in the military and was stationed there. She became a Christian after hearing about Jesus at a school assembly. Missy's walk of faith has continued and grown, regardless of the amount of pain in some of her life's circumstances. Throughout her life she has been inspired by so many people. A few that I will mention are her husband, Ned; Pastor Chris Cutshall and his wife, Kathy; her friend, Debby; and a long succession of wonderful women who have befriended and mentored her in the faith.

The spiritual lesson that seems to keep recurring in her life is that "God can take the worst of circumstances and make good come from it-He is that awesome! Every trial we face is designed by His hand, with His purpose in mind." Those are words of wisdom to hang on to! When Missy needs encouragement, she digs into the Word, listens to worship music, and calls or e-mails a friend - more great advice! At this point she would describe her perfect day as a "Blue and Gold" day on the water-deep blue sky, fresh wind, and beautiful sunshine. (Missy grew up on Lake Huron.) But, if that is not possible, a day with her family together is even better!

Missy describes herself as 'caring'. She absolutely hates to see anyone be humiliated or embarrassed. I would definitely agree with her description. I will also add that she is diligent, faithful, loyal, persevering, wise, a great listener - the list goes on! Fellow COF board member, Tammy, adds this about Missy. "I had the opportunity to travel to Nepal with Missy and was amazed by her endurance and strength. She really got sick - I mean horrible, horrible dysentery where she could barely stand up; fever and just major sick - but.she truly never complained, had a smile at all times on her pale face and ministered to the Nepali people with full vigor. I love Missy; she is a beautiful, Godly woman, and I cherish her friendship!"

Missy adds incredible wisdom to our COF team with her gifts, and we are so blessed to know her and to work alongside her. I just want to thank her for saying 'yes' to Circle of Friends!

Thanks for reading,

Libby

Labels: Libby