2014 Could Be A Doozy

Reflecting back, 2013 was a good year for me.  I was stretched in many ways and God revealed a deeper level of faith I never knew.  And I learned how to swim!  Me.  A 30 something with a life-long fear of water higher than my waist! What an amazing experience.

I have so much to be thankful for.  I have so much that I don't deserve.  And yet God continues to show amazing grace.  His patience and love is never ending!  And I am certain that many of you can say the same thing.

So as 2014 arrived I began seeking goals and making plans.  Its funny, when I was younger life seemed so much easier to map out. Now I find that life is so much more unpredictable.  There are so many possibilities that at times it feels overwhelming.  And yet it isn't. 

My circumstances may change from year-to-year but God, my rock and shelter, never changes. And I remain myself, simply with more experience and knowledge in my possession.  Yet I hope that He would grant me increased humbleness and wisdom. It is a hesitant wish at times because its fulfillment usually happens through suffering. 

2014 is very young.  We are only in January and already it is proving to be unpredictable. My first challenge of the year arrives in its first month and in the form of a health scare.  Without divulging too much information I will simply state that I found a suspicious lump and will be evaluated by my doctor to discuss what further tests needs to be done.

I don't know how things will develop and yet I have peace.  If the mysterious lump is found to be benign I will praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy.  And if the lump is found to be malignant I will praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy.  That is the plan so far in terms of attitude.

What I know from past experience is that my life is in God's hands as is every life given to Him by faith in Jesus Christ.  And I know that for this year, or for as long as God wishes, I want to focus on how I can better serve Him.  I would also like to be more creative and brave in how I accomplish this goal.

I feel restless, as if He is calling me to step outside my comfort zone again in a big way and follow His leading.  I am seriously considering several mission trips to multiple countries around the globe.  Some of which would be very taxing physically and emotionally.  But I will wait to share these dreams until I know for certain how my current challenge will turn out.

So if God lays it on your heart, keep me in your prayers and I will post updates as I learn more.  My prayer for each of you is that God reveals His presence and love in new and amazing ways.  Life can be difficult but we must all remember that we have already been guaranteed the victory if we have even the tiniest bit of faith!

Blessings to you and may 2014 find us faithful to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  To Him belongs all glory and honor!

" Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."

~ Hebrews 11:1