Our hearts are heavy as we said goodbye to Yoda, our sweet Yorkie, on Sunday. He would have turned 15 this July 4. For nearly 15 years, since he was just a tiny puppy, Yoda has been a constant, furry presence in our lives.
It’s hard to put into words what he meant to our family. He grew up alongside Abby, Autumn, and Austin, witnessing countless milestones and everyday moments. From the early days when he went with me to work during the potty-training stage to the countless evenings he would hop up to sit right beside me in my recliner — always wanting to be close until his age made it too hard — Yoda filled our home with so much joy and unconditional love. I’ll miss sharing my Sonic ice with him. His little expectant face was always waiting for his share. And I’ll deeply miss that guaranteed happy greeting every time I came home. Outside of my wife, Kristin, he truly was “man’s best friend.” His little paws walked through so many seasons of our lives.
That unwavering companionship, that always-happy-to-see-me greeting, was a sweet, tangible picture of an even greater truth. As much as Yoda loved us and wanted to be near, we know there is a Friend who sticks closer than a brother (Prov. 18:24), One whose love and presence are truly constant. Yoda’s loyalty was a small reminder of how our Heavenly Father is always waiting for us, ready to welcome us back with open arms, no matter how far we may stray.
Losing Yoda leaves a quiet space in our home and a deep ache in our hearts. Pets weave themselves into the fabric of our families in such a special way, and the grief is real.
Even in this sadness, we find comfort in knowing God is the ultimate source of peace. He understands our sorrow, and we lean on Him during this time of loss. While we mourn Yoda, we are grateful for the gift he was to us for so many years — a small creature who showed us big love and reminded us of the greatest Love of all. We cherish the memories and thank God for our time with our dear Yoda.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).
Special Emphasis Update
We are 75% through our designated time (March and April) for our Special Emphasis assigned by the state association to raise necessary funds beyond our normal operating expenses. Our goal is to cover our regular production and post-production costs using the monthly support we receive from churches and individuals, along with our income from subscription fees. When we encounter extra or unplanned expenses, we aim to raise the funds needed to address these during our Special Emphasis period. This year, we have set a goal of $30,000 to cover the additional salary expense of hiring and training a new staff member, as Associate Editor Allan Eakin transitions to a full-time role as pastor, and to accommodate the extra operating costs of transitioning to a 12-page paper each week.
Thanks to each church and individual that has already given this year. Here are the latest receipts since the last report:
2025 Special Emphasis • Goal — $30,000
Previously Reported Total $4,350
Pleasant Valley, Greenbrier * $1,000
Pat/Diane Spriggs $200
New Shiloh, Mineral Springs $50
Gum Springs, Arkadelphia $166
Total $5,766
* previously given
