Poetry, Prose & Other Things

The following letter was written by a precious sister in Christ.This was written by a sister in Christ at the Bradley Forrest
Church, in the Manassas, Va. area, my first Church to
pastor in the 60's.

Dear Bro. Layne,

 

I guess you thought I would never get back to you. I want you

to know that I just finished your book. I have been reading a
few pages every day after my quiet time, kind of like dessert.
I don't get to eat dessert very often because of the diabetes,
but your book was like sweet honeycomb to my spirit. I was
so blessed to read (hear) your words again. I wish I had some
of your sermons from Bradley Forest on tape. How many times
I recall hearing you recite the 23rd Psalm. Reading your book
was like going to a Homecoming service. The poems in
memory of Gail were very poignant. When I think about the
times we had together, Gail, Judy, Sherry and myself, it seems
like another lifetime, yet like only yesterday. We were so
blessed to have each other as friends in those impressionable
years and to have the examples of you and Sister Lois and my
mom and dad. I am rambling. What I mean to say, is that I really
enjoyed enjoyed your book. There were many times I had to put
it down to wipe my eyes. I was not weeping tears of sadness,
but tears of rejoicing and blessing. (Yes, I have that old crying
kind of salvation). May God continue to bless you both. I would
be privileged to see you all, but if that should not happen on this

earth, I will meet you in heaven. Our loved ones are not pining

for us, but they are rejoicing with Jesus there. It sure will be

good to see Mom, Dad, and Danny again. But more than they,

I want to see the One who shed His blood and died for me on

Calvary. I can't wait to cast my crowns, should I have any, at

His feet, for He and only He is worthy!

Until He comes or calls, I remain your sister in Christ,

 

Reety Jean

 

Danny, mentioned in the letter was her husband. She taught

School in S.C. & is probably retired as of now, 3/20/07.
Her name is Rita Russell Fletcher.