Well, this was the 3rd Bates’ Wedding our family has been invited to, and we were very honored and humbled when we received the invitation in the mail. We have formed a friendship with the Bates because we have been at their church a few times and done some singing. We are so honored for their testimony for the Lord…………..especially now that they are willing to put their family in the “public eye” as they now have their own show on the UP (Uplifting Entertainment) channel called “Bringing up Bates”.

Weddings like what Michaela Bates and Brandon Keilen had are virtually becoming extinct in this modern day……………where Christ is honored, there is modest dress and chaste spirits in the bride & bridesmaids, and the bride and groom come to the marriage altar pure! Praise God for this testimony! We enjoyed being a part of this special day, especially because it was a nice diversion from all the suffering we have faced in the last few months. It was good to see the Bates family and Michaela personally thanked us for coming.

It was also a special treat to see the Duggar Family there – due to Jana Duggar being one of the bridesmaids. Their family never ceases to amaze me because of one thing in particular…………their humble spirit. Many times when people are put in the public eye and become famous, it goes to their heads and they treat you as if they really do not have the “time of day” for you. As we have gotten to know this family better, I can truly say, they do not acted rushed when they are talking to you and truly act like they care about you!! This inspires me and reminds me how I want to treat people as we travel from church to church. The Duggars singled us out and spoke with care to us…………even asking specifically about my dear sister Amy Foster. It blessed my heart so much and I appreciate their prayers.

This reminds me of how I think of Jesus Christ Himself – GOD’s Own Son – and yet He made Himself of no reputation!! Php 2:7 “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:” I am impressed in my life that I want to walk in humility! – trying to emulate my GREATEST role model – Jesus Christ!! I fail many times – but my goal is to make eye contact with people, smile, show care, and not always act rushed when I really have no TRULY pressing needs or committments before me. (There are times where I have to rush………smile), but I try to make people feel valued in my sight…………because I am TRULY NO BETTER than they are………..smile.

Anyway, I thank God for good examples I have in my life that act upon these principles and values………….because our God is a caring God and forgets not the cry of the humble. Ps 9:12 “When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them: he forgetteth not the cry of the humble.” Time and again, I see the humble are the people that are lifted up for God’s glory. Why, because when we realize that we are NO ONE in our own strength, but ONLY by the power of God, it is then that HE ALONE is glorified through our lives! Ps 34:2 “My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.” Duggar Family, thank you for your testimony for the Lord and your example of humility!

Well, dear reader, we wanted to share this exciting experience with you. Brandon and Michaela make a beautiful couple and we are so thankful for this union that God brought together!! CONGRATULATIONS, Michaela and Brandon. We love you guys!!!

Because of Jesus, Jill Rodrigues

P.S. It was neat because Anna Duggar and I had our babies one day apart. I had Sofia on July 15th and Anna had Meredith on July 16th!! They both weighed 7 lbs. 14 oz. at birth. It was fun to compare notes and take pics!!

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