Upendo Ministries

Today feels weighty. Our nation mourns, and I mourn too. News has spread about a God-honoring man whose life was taken by violence. It’s a sobering reminder of the brokenness in our world. But my heart also aches on a much closer level. We lost a dear friend today.

Sis. Naomi Campbell has gone home to be with Jesus. She wasn’t just someone I passed by at church or at events. She carried the love of Christ with her, and she gave it freely. Sis. Naomi always made sure we exchanged a greeting and a hug. One particular time stands out; we were at an event and we hadn’t greeted each other. Before leaving, she was looking for me and said we hadn’t gotten our hug in. That was her—intentional, warm, persistent in love. She would often tell me that she was praying for me and she loved me. Her life was a reflection of Jesus, and her words and actions left a mark that will not fade.

So now, I take this moment to ask you, to remind you, hug your friends and family a little tighter. Tell them you love them. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Each of our lives will come to an end at some point, and we won’t be able to go back in time and share the words we wish we had said. So do it now. Reflect Jesus. Love deeply. Shine brightly.

From my heart to yours—I want you to know that you are so deeply loved. If you’ve stumbled onto these words, know that I am praying for you. You are doing incredible things, even when it feels unseen, and I pray earnestly that God blesses you beyond measure.

Sending so much love to you all,
Vanessa