TEXARKANA MAGAZINE
This verse has carried me through my own deepest sorrow—the unexpected loss of our firstborn son. There was a time when I could not see beyond the weight of grief, but God, in His mercy, never let my story end there. Instead, He has shown me how even the most painful chapters can become testimonies of His faithfulness. We all have stories of struggle and moments we thought would break us. But if Easter tells us anything, it is that resurrection follows the darkest nights, that grace meets us in our lowest places, and that the worst chapter of our lives can become the opening line of a testimony that glorifies the One who never lets our stories end in defeat. In this issue, we take a look at some of the oldest churches in Texarkana—standing strong for over 150 years, weathering seasons of both hardship and triumph. You will also find an inspiring story about Chase Brewster and the Texas A&M University- Texarkana baseball team, must-try Taste Buds Fish Fry recipe, and all the details for this year’s 80th annual Four States Fair & Rodeo. We are also spotlighting local insurance agents who are dedicated to protecting what matters to us most. And, of course, don’t miss the monthly favorites you know and love. This season, I hope you see that whatever you have walked through, you are not defined by your pain—you are defined by God’s ability to redeem it. Your story is not over. In fact, it may just be getting started.
T here is a saying I recently heard that has not left my heart, “God takes the worst moment of your life and turns it into the first line of your testimony.” This truth resonates deeply, especially as we enter this Easter season, a time when redemption takes center stage. Easter is the ultimate proof that God brings beauty from ashes. By every human standard, the cross was a tragedy. It was betrayal, suffering, and darkness. But in God’s hands, the worst moment in history became the greatest victory humanity has ever known. It became our hope, our salvation, and our new beginning. Romans 8:28 reminds us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” It does not say some things. It says all things. Even the heartbreaks, the setbacks, the moments when we feel completely lost. He weaves from them something meaningful. Yes, we are changed by them, but in His wisdom, He uses each circumstance to make us into a refined version of ourselves—one that more clearly reflects His image.
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
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