Faithful Friends: Steve & Cathy
- Debra Flaming
- Aug 13
- 2 min read
Several years ago, Steve and Cathy came to our farm for the first time, simply to enjoy the flowers. Dion and I had no idea what absolute treasures these two would become in our lives. We tend to be loners—hermit-like personalities who like to do things ourselves—and yet Steve and Cathy pursued a friendship with us with relentless kindness. Honestly, sometimes I have no idea why.
They are the definition of servanthood. Strong believers in Christ, they’ve encouraged and inspired us to grow in our faith—not through grand speeches, but through the way they live and in the genuine conversations we’ve shared.
Above and Beyond
Last summer, they spent hours on the farm helping us in ways that still leave me humbled.
They stood in a hot field for hours helping us lay out our corn maze.
They built decks and massive 15-foot signs.
They painted, stained, weed-whacked in the sunflower field, harvested flowers for bouquets, and helped set up the pumpkin patch.
Steve took on security for a big event, and Cathy—though terrified—ran Admissions with grace.
When 2025’s dahlia project began, there they were again—crawling through rows with us, planting tubers on hands and knees for hours. And today, when Dion and I are under the weather with little strength, all it took was a small SOS, and first thing this morning they were in our driveway, ready to help. I couldn’t even go outside to lend a hand, but they were here—faithful, dependable, and steady as a rock.
More Than Just Help
I know they pray for us. I know they think of us. And if Cathy knows your birthday, watch out—you will be celebrated in full.
Reflecting on their countless acts of love and service, I’m reminded of how easy it is to take generosity for granted. Their example mirrors the way God gives into our lives—constantly, faithfully, abundantly. It prompts me to think about all God has invested in me:
Sacrificing His one and only Son for my salvation.
Knitting me together in my mother’s womb.
Giving me life, and placing me in a world that radiates His creative nature.
I owe Him my everything because He gave me His very best.
Paying It Forward
The truth is, I could never repay Steve and Cathy for all they’ve done. They wouldn’t accept it anyway. And God doesn’t ask us to repay Him either—He asks us to love Him with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves.
So that’s my takeaway: to let the goodness and grace shown to me—both from my best friends and from my Savior—flow outward. To love and serve others. To offer my life as a “sacrifice of praise” for all He has done.
Forever grateful,
Debra Flaming
