2008 Around the Bend

The week between Christmas and New Years Eve can seem like limbo. The old year is almost over and the new is just a turn of the page. The news programs are showing the “year in review” and predictions for the new year all in the same hour. Some of us are people who typically look back and review our past. We may get stuck in the failures or regrets or rejoice over the victories and successes.. Or we may be one who likes to look ahead to the future. What does this New Year hold for us. It’s like the winding road in the country picture lined with tall leafy trees. You can’t see what’s around the bend but it leaves a sense of anticipation for the unknown.

While I wait with anticipation for the unfolding of this New Year, I also like to review the past year. I usually look back over my journals to recall the scriptures God made real to me, what He impressed upon me to believe, answers to prayer, special blessings and the trials I overcame. This past year has been a year of many bends in the road with the unexpected but wonderful happening. Three grandchildren was a wonderful addition. Doing three Uniquely His Workshops was a great opportunity for ministry. Writing two blogs was a fulfillment of a goal for writing and ministry. Traveling to St. Louis for more personality and coaching training was a great experience of learning and networking. Speaking at two Marriage retreats, Minister’s wives Retreat and in Pittsburgh, Quakertown and Aberdeen was challenging but exhilarating. Participating in a thirty and forty day fast was a deeply spiritual experience. Facilitating a new vision for our Women of Calvary ministry has been challenging but exciting as God is birthing a new vision in each of you. 2007 was a year of stretching wide my tent, lengthening my cords, strengthening my stakes and growing in ministry and life. What was it for you?

If we don’t look back and evaluate how will we know if we grew? If we don’t look ahead how can we plan for growth? I don’t know what 2008 holds for me but I know who holds my life in His hands. He does all things well. He father filters every trial and will not give me more than I can bear up under with His help. He has been faithful in the past and He will be faithful in the future, no matter what is around the bend.