My records indicate this is my 240th article to be printed in the Mayfield Messenger since April 2015. This is my last article. We moved to Mayfield in November of 2003 to work with the then Seventh and College Church of Christ (since named the Seven Oaks Church of Christ). Mayfield has been our home for almost 18 years. We are moving this July to Henderson, Tennessee where I will start my work in August as a Bible professor at Freed-Hardeman University. We are excited about this next phase of life and ministry, but are sad to leave this community we have called home for nearly two decades. Allow me some reflection and an opportunity to express gratitude.
I appreciate the Mayfield Messenger editor and staff for allowing me to submit weekly articles. I am most grateful for all the readers through the years. I have received much encouragement and joy from hearing from you. These articles have been a way for me to share my life with the broader Mayfield community and hopefully encourage you in your faith, family, and life.
This is a wonderful community. You have welcomed us as one of your own. We have so many friends that have enriched our lives. All four of our children were born and mostly raised here. You have provided educational opportunities, community resources, athletic competition, and many wonderful memories. We love this community and are thankful for its impact and good it has had upon our family. I am thankful for Seven Oaks Church of Christ and their support and love to our family.
Saying goodbye is difficult. These next few months of transition invoke many emotions. We are going to embrace them all as best we can. Because loving and being loved by people and creating a storehouse of memories with your family and church is what live is about! It is how God made us to be!
While these weekly articles will stop, you can find all the old articles and new ones I will add in the future at my website – www.JoshKetchum.com. You can even subscribe to receive new articles by email.
“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24–26)
