New Years Eve, for many, brings a time of reflection. I thought I'd add my piece to the picture, and give you a look at the big parts of my 2015... in a different way.
Ecclesiastes 11:5 : "As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things." March brought the birth of a cousin, and added a new bundle of joy to our family. We were showed the miracle of birth, and once again reminded of God's love. Matthew 5:43-44: "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy,' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for the ones who persecute you." April brought a school trip to D.C., during which we spent a week helping those who are less fortunate than us. We were taught to care for those who have less, and to show them the same love that God has showed us. Genesis 28:15: "I am with you and shall keep you wherever you go." June brought the celebration of 50 years of unending love for my grandparents, and an unforgettable trip to Turks and Caicos. We saw breathtaking views of crystal clear blue water and received a glimpse into life in a different corner of the world... island time. Acts 1:5: "For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit." August brought a new step of faith. I committed my life to Jesus Christ in front of my family, and I can honestly say it is the only decision I've ever been completely sure about. The times in between and after August have brought many blessings and great memories with friends and family, and I see God's mercy and love every day, as I live out His plan for my life. So, there's a little look into my year. I hope 2015 was a great year for you, and I hope 2016 brings many memories and things to be thankful for. Happy New Year!
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With the help of a wonderfully written devotional book, I reflected on the true miracle of the Christmas story throughout Advent. I learned how God used ordinary people, much like you and I, to change the course of human history. And he used things we learn and do every day ... hope. patience. prayer. trust. watching God do the impossible. obedience. praise. wonder.
Elizabeth had hoped for a child for many years, expecting one for many years before God answered her prayers. She trusted God's plan for her life. Zechariah and Joseph, both suddenly thrown into a world where caring for a son was becoming their priority, spent many hours in prayer because they didn't know what to do. Mary watched God do the impossible when he gave her, a virgin, a baby boy, our Savior. She placed immense trust in God's plan, because her baby, her firstborn son, would be taken from her and given into the hands of the Father. Zechariah obeyed God's instructions. The name chosen for his son, a prophet, was not a name widely used at the time. Joseph patiently stayed with Mary, trusting God to lead him in the right way, considering a divorce. Mary and Elizabeth both praised and wondered, aloud and in prayer, the works of God's handiwork in their lives, doing things they thought were impossible. The devotional book, "Refocus - 25 Days of Devotions for Christmas & Advent" taught me that Christmas isn't about the presents, no matter how numerous or wonderful they are, or the brightness of your outdoor lights, or the height of your Christmas tree, but the birth of a baby. A humble baby, who doesn't care about the presents or the bustle of the holiday season. |
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