One of the things that I most admired about Beth was her ability to connect with and positively impact so many different people types. When I think of the influence that Beth had on people, I am reminded of what Paul said in 1 Corinthians 9:19-22 – “Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.” Beth’s life was a living example of these words in action. I have often wondered if Beth was even aware of the influence that she had on people. If someone would have told Beth that they saw Paul’s words from 1 Corinthians 9 exemplified in her, she probably would have responded with disbelief and said something about her lack of patience with people who were not as structured and focused as she was. But even in what she would have perceived as a weakness, she was strong. Because of her complete surrender to Christ, His grace and mercy poured out in Beth a strength that empowered her to be more than a conqueror. For when we are weak, then we are strong ( see 2 Corinthians 12:10b). In Him, with His love working through her, Beth had a measure of influence that was exceedingly abundantly more than she would have ever imagined possible. Beth’s influence has forever changed me in ways that have made me a better person. I am honored to have called Beth my friend and I will deeply miss her.