One of Waycross’ own, vivacious Beth Taylor, whose grandparents, Liston and Myrtle Elkins, had hearts for Waycross and prominent roles in the Okefenokee Swamp Park history of the area, captured the attention of her Saturday Waycross Aglow Lighthouse fellowship by saying, “I am thankful Jesus showed up and He is coming back.’’
Sharing a dutch treat luncheon at Waycross’ Capt. Joe’s Restaurant, Christian worshippers were encouraged by Mrs. Taylor who commented, “God invites us to partner with Him. It is a challenge to us to surrender to God.’’
“It is an honor to serve the Father. I am so grateful You showed up and brought redemption and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Have the courage to say ‘not my will, but your will,’’’ she said.
Described as “glowing’’ in her remarks, Mrs. Taylor said, “We thank you, God. Our hope is in Jesus. We have one Savior. He calls us to do His bidding.’’ She recounted the story of Jesus’ birth, calling attention to Mary, the mother of Jesus, asking “How can this be? Mary was chosen by God and she agreed.’’
Mrs. Taylor is an ordained minister and cofounder of Taylor Ministry Group along with her husband. She said they invest their lives encouraging and coaching ministry leaders around the globe. They also co-founded Family Discipleship Ministries, a network that offers training in discipleship, leadership, worship and missions. They are conference speakers and writers.
Each Aglow participant received the Taylors’ book “ The Glory of Advent.’’ This is Advent devotional journey is dedicated to Mrs. Taylor’s grandparents, the Elkins. She said, “As a little girl I was taught by both of them that Christmas is when we celebrated the extraordinary birth of a Son who changed everything for anyone who would dare to believe and follow Him. Their love for Him, for family and for the greater Waycross community was a glorious testimony.”
Taylor and her husband, Eddie, both ordained ministers, lead the Taylor Ministry Group with the motto of: “Strengthening Today’s Church for Tomorrow’s World.’’ They say their mission is to reach, resource and restore leaders to health in preparation for the days ahead. “Our message is calling the church back to dependence upon the person of Jesus Christ, fidelity to the Holy Scriptures and vital New Testament community.
Aglow President Rosalind Eskew welcomed the group and thanked Mrs. Taylor for a “most meaningful Christmas message.’’ Eskew welcomed new ladies to the group and thanked musician Melanie Hauner for leading Christmas carols.
The room was aglow with Christmas lights. Added was the celebration joy for Mrs. Eskew who celebrated her birthday
