The Neely Team

Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!

For those of you who have so patiently waited for additional wedding photos, here they are at last. We hope to do a series of posts about that glorious day… so keep checking back!

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Wilkes!

My beloved is mine, and I am his.

Behold, thou art fair, my love…

My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD: and let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever.

Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things.

Manicures and pedicures for the bridesmaids and mothers… a wonderful time to make sisterly memories!

At the church, making further preparations for the big day!

The Morning of May 18, 2013

Milestones serve as excellent “stopping points” along the path of life at which to recall and communicate the providence and mercy of our Heavenly Father. Yesterday, shortly after we left home to enjoy an evening together at Wayah Bald, we encountered one of these important milestones: our van turned over 250, 000 miles! All those miles traveled together, and in safety, over the past 10 years, remind us of the beautiful truth that “Faithful is He that calleth you, Who also will do it.” The Lord has directed each trip, each opportunity for ministry, and He has faithfully provided and sustained. To Him be praise!

Following that excitement and celebration (which we were privileged to enjoy along with Wes Barnes, loaned to us from his family for a few days), we spent the evening marveling the breathtaking scenery of Wayah Bald. As we stood looking out over the vast expanse visible from such a height, one person accurately summed up our feelings with the quiet reminder that “We serve a great Artist.”

The wedding is over. The bins are put away. The bride and groom are on their honeymoon. All the extended family have returned home. And a holiday around the corner….

What is something we can do, to make some extra special memories as a family?

Mom and Dad had an idea! And an exciting one it was!!

So, the plan?? A trip to Wake Forest, NC for the Memorial Day Picnic at the Brown family farm! This annual event was attended by hundreds of people, the Gospel was clearly presented, and our veterans were honored. What a blessing it was to be there, and to enjoy the sweet fellowship with dear friends, and to meet new friends!

The idea was a success. As we drove home that evening, our hearts were encouraged, and gratitude filled us as we were reminded of the great sacrifice that thousands have given for our freedom. May we be faithful to the Lord, and stand for truth, for sake of generations to come and for the glory of our Lord!

Here are a few pictures from Matthew & Amanda’s Wedding! We rejoice in God’s abundant goodness toward us, and praise Him for His continued work in our lives! Thank you to all of you who were able to participate in this special day, whether in person or via live streaming. It is our prayer that your hearts were drawn closer to our Heavenly Bridegroom as we look forward to His appearing!

More pictures to follow….

Can’t make it to the wedding? Lord willing, Matthew and Amanda’s wedding ceremony will be broadcasted live!

To view, tune into our blog on Saturday, May 18th, 2013 at 12:30pm.

“Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!” Psalm 31:19

UPDATE: View the wedding live at this link: http://theneelyteam.com/2013/05/18/matthew-amandas-wedding/