New beginnings

   I have never been fond of having 'resolutions' - it seems like making empty promises to yourself. I am more of a goal setter; I like the idea of making reasonable short-term goals over the course of a year. 

   Christmas Day has always been a time of reflection for me. It is about looking back at the year; about mistakes made and challenges ahead. This past year has  been one of the most eventful years for us. There has been a lot of transition, including our youngest graduating fron high school and starting college, as well as our oldest getting not one, but two, art time jobs.

   We are excited about 2014 and hopeful for the future. And we are ready to put this year to bed.

Change is hard...but change is inevitable...

   Our lives are in a constant state of change; job changes, status changes, even Facebook status changes. But how we deal with them is vital to our well-being. In his letter to the Romans, Paul writes

" for we know all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to his purposes" (8:28). 

   1. God has a plan for us… The scary part is not knowing what it is.

   2. When we love God, and serve God with all of our hearts, then God will work things out for us.

   3. We don't always understand God's plans for us; but God's ways are always best.

   Recently, my family and I had to make a decision that affected all of us. It was going to mean a big change, but we knew that it was a necessary change. Since that decision, there has been a peace in my heart that I cannot explain fully. But, I do know that this decision was the correct decision to make.

For many months, I made it a matter of prayer. When the time was right, I made the decision and felt a peace about it with no regrets. 

   I don't know what the future holds, but I do know "who holds the future, and I know who holds my hand"

Reflecting...

In a couple weeks, I will be attending my high school reunion. Every time the opportunity arises, I take time to reflect on how my life has turned out. 

Thirty years ago I would not have visualized being in the place that I am now. But I am forever grateful for the choices that I have made that have brought me to this place in my life. I am even more thrilled to see what the future has in store.