Today, I honor a friend, Kay McDaniel, who now makes heaven her home. Has God placed people on your path that are treasured gems? Kay was one of those friends for me, and I am making space on the blog today to reflect on a woman who was a gem to me and so many others.

Kay left a legacy here on earth, and I am grateful that our paths crossed. To know her was to see faith in action. To know her was to see a beautiful display of the love of Christ. Kay was a faithful friend to many who will be forever treasured.

I’ll never forget attending a women’s retreat in my early twenties. I was a new believer in Christ and discovering this new life in Him. My sister knew who would lead my table, and while she didn’t reveal who she was, she excitedly told me that I would have the best. I didn’t think much about it then, but when the weekend started, I soon discovered that my sister was right. Little did I know then how this woman of faith would impact my life.

Kay’s wisdom was captivating, and her perseverance demonstrated a race that reflected a deep faith in Christ. She always had a welcoming smile and had something positive to say. Her legacy and all that she pursued in life are remarkable, and I am honored to have called her my friend. Several years ago, she invested time into a twenty-something-year-old that left a lasting impression. Not only did she make a difference in my life, I know she has for countless others.

Remembering this special friend, Scripture verses that resonate deeply come to mind.

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:23-24 NIV).

These verses reflected my friend, Kay. Kay’s life spoke hope, and her faithfulness in Christ went to the depths. She believed in you, even when you couldn’t see it yourself. She loved all. She believed everyone could go the extra mile with Christ.

She genuinely believed in people and that they could do everything through Christ. Isn’t that like Jesus?

Kay spurred everyone on, pouring out wisdom and demonstrating that you can run the race through perseverance. I will always admire her determination and how she would encourage you to be determined to pursue Christ in faith.

“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us” (Romans 5:3-5 NIV).

Kay encountered challenges, yet her unwavering perseverance rooted in her faith in Christ illuminated her path and served as an inspiration to everyone fortunate to know her. She displayed such strong character and resilience that left a profound impact. The very foundation of Kay’s life was firmly built on perseverance, character, and hope. She remained steadfast, and I am inspired to build my own life on her faithful example.

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17 NIV).

Kay’s words were always uplifting and served a purpose. Her words were of wisdom and thanksgiving that enlightened me and so many others. We always had conversations full of grace (Colossians 4:6). Her actions reflected the bright glow of the light of Christ, which displayed love and kindness. I will never forget the genuine kindness of Kay, along with her encouraging words that stirred deep belief and trust. That is how I remember my friend – always full of grace.

Kay ran a race of perseverance and always had her eyes fixed on Jesus. As I remember Kay, I want to keep running the race with character, faith, wisdom, and grace as she did.

When I met Kay at the women’s retreat in my early twenties, she gave me the nickname “Moses,” which has stuck ever since. I know she believed in me and in God’s purpose for my life. Although I didn’t recognize it at the time, I’ve since seen that purpose unfolding.

I will be forever grateful and honored to have Kay in my life. Thank you, Kay, for shining the light of Christ so brightly. Thank you for believing in me.
Love, “Moses”

I honor this faithful friend, a mentor, and a mighty woman of God who reflected faith. I know she will be incredibly missed by so many. As I remember and honor Kay’s life, I am inspired to run the race with perseverance, character, and hope.