Good morning! Looking back, as we are prone to do on the last day of the year, I'm sure we all have things we remember fondly, or things that were difficult, relationships that grew and changed and others that did not. Situations that could have been handled better, others that were smooth and effortless. The point is, we are all always growing, changing, learning - whether we realize it or not. This past year has been a tough one in many ways - my father's heart attack and surgery, his continuing recovery; watching our kids grow and mature beautifully but not always without struggle; the hectic balance of work, service, and life all intermingled; and of course, my journey so far with cancer. We may be eager to say good riddance to this past year and expect 2012 to be 'better'...as though it is the calendar's responsibility! But, we have a God who is not limited by a calendar or time. I find great comfort in that - He sees the big picture, the finished product - and He knows what needs to be accomplished for that to be a reality. Sorry if I'm getting too thoughtful on this entry, but it has been on my mind. I have had people ask if I'm angry at God for this, or curious 'Why me?'...honestly, I can say no. Why not me? Granted, I am not dealing with a grim prognosis like some are, so it may be easier for me to say that, but this is still not easy and there are still always questions/possibilities/fears that creep up. However, when I remember that HE made me and HE loves me so much more than I can even love myself, then I simply have to trust, that no matter what it looks like to me, this is what HE is finding best in my life right now. Some of this, I know, comes from seeing His hand in my life and that of my family's over and over again. He has proven Himself faithful and true, and ever-present. So, why would He be any different now, just cause I may not like the circumstances?
Is this making any sense? I'm beginning to ramble, so here are my thankful thoughts:
- A fun evening for family last night that afforded a quiet evening for me...much needed.
- The number of friends that I have re-connected with through this - that alone has been a blessing!
- A surprise meal delivered just when needed!
- Lipgloss, eyebrow pencil, cream and another hat from some very dear friends who visited! You knew just what I needed...what a treat!
- Enjoying getting some little projects done from my chair - would never have sat still long enough to do them before.
- Pointsettias - they are beautiful
- Soup - it tastes so good to me when not much does.
- Ice cold water.
- My father still being here.
- My mother's example of service and strength with laughter.
Ephesians 3:14-19
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Have a safe and blessed New Year, and eagerly look to know the Lord better in this coming year. Love you all!
Andi
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