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I’ve been intending to introduce our two new authors for a while—and keep getting run over by the day to day—but I’m going to save that announcement for later in the week. Today I received some news that isn’t nearly as happy. My business partner and head of Journey Press, Joy DeKok, will have to withdraw as an active participant in the business, at least for a while.I can’t say this is unexpected. Joy has been dealing with a number of physical ailments for the past several months, and I’ve been doing a lot of praying, hoping she would get better for her own sake as well as for this business. But her condition hasn’t improved. Her doctor has become very concerned and has told her to cut back on everything she’s doing. Over the next couple of weeks, Joy will undergo a series of tests at the Mayo Clinic, which is near her home thankfully. Until she’s back at full strength, she’s going to have to rest as much as possible and focus on getting well.
I know you all join me in wishing Joy the very best and a quick and complete recovery. She has contributed so much to this endeavor, and she is going to be greatly missed while she steps down. All of us involved with Sheaf House appreciate her so much. She has encouraged each of us in writing and marketing, opened our eyes to so many exciting possibilities, counseled us wisely, cheered us on, and been a dear friend to each of us in every way.
Please join me in praying that this absence will be a short one, and that Joy will be able to resume active involvement in Sheaf House very soon. And also please pray that in the meantime we’ll be able to keep this venture moving forward.
9 comments:
Dear Joy,
Life has a way of interrupting--when I was forty and newly married I had a heart attack that spun everything to a stop for me--I fought it, denied it, was so angry that it should hit me at the time when I was the happiest, but God had another plan for me. I had to stop being busy, to be still, before I could listen. Joy, my prayers join yours and Joan's and all those who love you for your complete healing. When life is out of control, then God's waiting for you to let go and let Him look after you. Something happens to all that anguished energy when you do that. Instead of it turning against you, letting God absorb your energy actually frees it to work for you, to heal you.
And Joan, God hasn't brought you this far to let you dangle in the wind now. Go forth in confidence that He will show you the way to carry on and grow with new choices.
Psalm 37:4 "Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart."
Love and hugs, Bonnie
I can't say this any better than Bonnie did - my prayers are with you all also.
PamT
Couldn't even respond when I first read Joan's post. I read it first thing this morning and the tears blurred my eyes too much to respond at the time.
Oh Joy, my heart is aching for you today. I know this had to have been a tough decision in some ways, easy in others (when the doctor says "or else"?!) Please be assured our prayers are all over you and your husband and your doctors. And be sure to keep us posted so we know best how to pray.
Joan, hang in there. We are here for you as well. Let us know how we can help, okay?
I've been praying since the request came through. There are really no words, just know you are all loved and being prayed over.
Blessings,
Father, God,
Hold Joy in your loving arms. Show her the path you would have her take. Keep her family close to your heart and bring her back to us as speedily as your plan allows.
Uphold Joan with your strong right arm. Bring her others to help support and fill in until we can have our Joy back.
Bless this endeavor that you birthed in Joan's heart so many years ago. Let it prosper to your glory.
In Jesus' most precious name.
Amen
Asking God's richest blessings and highest will in this whole situation. That He heal Joy and prosper Sheaf House and fill you both with His peace and joy.
Joy's in my thoughts and prayers - God has some wonderful things in store for both of you, Joan.
hugs,
alice
Praying, praying. Amen to the prayers that have been posted here.
My heart goes out to Joy in her journey & recovery as well as in having to step back from something she loves.
God bless and be with Joy.
May God uplift you, Joan, as you carry a heavier load right now.
Much love in Christ,
Angie
Dear ones, thank you so much for your prayers for Joy and for me and Sheaf House too. I know I speak for her too in saying that your comments and prayers and encouragement mean so much more to us than you can ever know. We love every one of you!!
Love and hugs,
Joan
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