Over the years of ministry, I have seen friendships come in many unique and wonderful ways. Like two rosebushes that grow side by side, such friendships bring a joyful breath of beauty to our life. This is a tribute to two beautiful roses who have been friends together since childhood, Jennifer Fleming and Martha Epperson.

It was my pleasure to be their pastor for eleven years and continue our friendship since then. They were the kind of people who truly fulfilled Jesus’ teaching to “Let your light shine.” The room was always brighter when they were present.

They could have boasted many achievements and accolades they have received, but those things were never the center of their conversations. It is written that where your treasures are, there is where your heart will also be. Their hearts were like crystal, with treasures sparkling in love. Each jewel was a name, a life, family, friend, neighbor, student, even strangers that they met along the way. These dear friends have left their fingerprints on a multitude of hearts.

There are people who bring the Love of Christ to you simply by their presence and deeds of kindness.These two twins in spirit lived, laughed, cried, worshipped and prayed together their entire life, and they entered their Heavenly home exactly one week apart.

Martha sweetened our lives with her cake and thoughtful celebrations of the lives of others. She had a special mission to insure that no homebound friend was forgotten by the church. She led us all with great faith and courage.

Jennifer brought us joy and laughter. She too celebrated the special moments of her family and friends. Her heart and soul was doing whatever she could to make the church beautiful, and our faith illuminated with happiness.

What was written about Jesus, can also be said about both of them: “They loved us to the end.”

“When He cometh, when He cometh
To make up His jewels
All His jewels, precious jewels
His loved and His own

Like the stars of the morning
His bright crown adorning
They shall shine in their beauty
Bright gems for His crown.”