A Heartfelt Letter to Harriet: Honoring the Legacy of a Faithful Servant 2-8-26

Back in the day prior to our new life, we would party hearty, but GOD! A transformation took place in Harriet’s life first, and she became a bright light to me. I don’t remember how long it was between our born again experiences. Harriet not only was my sister-in-love, she still is; but we were good friends before and after our transformation.

My new life began while being in a rural church that I grew up in, and about year later after hungering for the Word of God: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. (Matthew 5:6), I asked Harriet did they have Bible study at her church and the answer was yes.

That was a step of progression in my spiritual walk (growth). I began attending Bible study and eventually became a member until the Spirit of God directed me to move on about four years later. As with any church, this one was not perfect, yet the Lord had me there for His purpose to be fulfilled during that season of my life.

Being led by the Holy Spirit, I am using Paul the apostle as an example for my letters of encouragement and commendation to those who have influenced and impacted my life in various capacities.

In Romans, chapter sixteen approximately thirty two people (male and female) are named who served with Paul at some point during his ministry. I have been blessed with numerous people that the Lord has used to be in my life; all praises, honor, and glory belong to God our Father. With that being said, this is my letter to Harriet, a faithful servant.

Grace and peace to my dearly beloved sister Harriet.

I pray that this short letter will be an added edification as you continue to persevere through the challenges that the Lord is gracing you to endure. You have been such an encouragement to me and now it’s time to reciprocate. As a matter of fact, I have not said this to you directly, but the Spirit prompted me to share with you and the readers how instrumental you have been to me and you still are.

During my appointed time at the church where we were both members, you were one of the ones who encouraged me to be involved, especially when it came to gaining more knowledge and understanding of the Word of God. I thank the Lord for your persistence that rubbed off on me; you bright light that I chose to follow because there was no doubt that you are a true follower of Christ.

I also thank the Lord for the dual fold purpose you served in my life; meaning there for me both physically and spiritually. We lost contact with each other for several years, but our connection was restored.

I thank the Lord for allowing me to visit the Ross home in August 2024. After that awesome greeting from Karen who ran out the door when I parked, shouting

“Aunt Betty”

then up the stairs and into the kitchen I headed to get a piece of your delicious cake. There was only one piece left; Linda and I knew the Lord held that piece for me.

The awesome fellowship with you, Linda, and Karen was much longer than I had anticipated. Thank the Lord for the short conversation I had with Pete.

By the way, Harriet is functioning in her call along with two other Sunday school teachers; was granted custody of one her great grands during chemo treatments. You are a strong woman of faith who still is there for other family members, including her husband Pete of fifty-two years.

You are truly a living testimony of someone who glorifies the Lord.

Harriet,  keep pressing forward in your good fight of faith. Grace, Peace and Love, my dear sister.

Harriet to me: “I thank God for the relationship we have and have been able to keep in touch, although we don’t see each other often. Real love in Christ is forever."

Betty A. Burnett ~ burnettministries.org