Women Connect: Sewing & Reaping — June Mills

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For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. >Ephesians 2:10 (English Standard Version)

While we know we're not saved by our works - as Christians it's our joy (usually!) to share our gifts to help others.

Take my friend, June, for instance...

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June Mills

Wes + I met June Mills on an Alaskan cruise in 2014. We led a couple workshops (and cloudy days on the high seas boosted our attendance :).

Our theme was encouraging seniors to continue using their gifts for Jesus. We suggested several ministries where many find their talents greatly appreciated. One ministry I mentioned was Dress a Girl Around the World.

The following year I received an email from (then, 90 year old) June:

This is June Mills wanting to be connected with those who sew, making dresses or whatever. I sew but I don't do twitter, etc. I met you on the Alaskan cruise.

How precious is that? 🙂

I gave June information on Dress a Girl, and she hit the ground running! That short note led to a sweet friendship. I loved my updates from her through emails and phone calls. At last count she had sewn 1500 dresses and repaired another 200+ that well-meaning friends had 'attempted'. In her late 90's she crocheted animal pillows and toys for foster children.

Earlier this month I received a call from Carrie, one of June's closest friends. She shared that June had just passed away, a month shy of her 99th birthday. Bittersweet news. While we mourn the loss of this precious saint, we know she is pain free...and in the presence of Jesus.

June displayed the spirit of Christmas year round. Through her gift of sewing and crocheting, she brought joy to children all around the world. And inspired so many.

I am just one of those.

RIP, sweet June. Oh what blessed hope we have...we will meet again!

thankful

for a sister (in-law) who patiently showed me how to make pillowcase dresses. When I told Vicky (who taught home ec for close to 30 years) that I was interested in learning how to make such - she hooked me up with all kinds of supplies. Oh, and she hit her own goal of making a hundred beautiful dresses.

Perhaps in 2024 you'd be interested in hosting a "Sewing Party" in your neighborhood, church or school? How special if young girls learned this somewhat lost art, alongside a seamstress mentor! And think of of the dresses (and/or boys' shorts) that could be sewn and then passed on to ministries helping to clothe children, locally or around the world. Please let me know if you host a sewing party. And, for sure, send pictures.

A great way to extend June Mills' legacy...and touch the heart of Jesus.

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With all the gift purchasing, making and even receiving, may we remember...

Nothing is more important than GIVING Jesus our heart. And sharing His love with others. May we be faithful with the Father's blessing... the gift of His Son. The PERFECT Christmas gift.

John 3:16 assures us "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." Whoever. He only asks us to BELIEVE IN HIM.

If you've never asked Jesus into your heart... or have walked away from His love, please continue here.

judy popineau wick