New Year Reflections

The year 2009 was not a particularly kind one to our family. In the past year, we or those close to us have experienced illness, death, layoffs, depression, anxiety, moves, separation from loved ones, financial crises, and more. The bottom line for 2009 was stress. The question of the year became "What next?", and near the end "How much more can we take?"

I wish I could say that I handled the trials of 2009 with faith and confidence that comes from our faith in Christ. Unfortunately, I sometimes lost sight of Him. However, I can say with complete confidence - He was always there. If there is anything positive that I can take from the year 2009, it is the complete assurance that nothing can separate me from the love of Christ.

The last year forced me to face some of my largest faults and failings, and as painful as the consequences of those failings were - I always knew that I was forgiven, and that Christ was still there - even when I couldn't forgive myself. Even in the midst of the worst trials our family has ever faced, we witnessed example after example of God's care and protection.

I wish I could see what 2010 will bring. I keep telling myself that it can't help but be a better year than 2009. However, I know that it is quite possible that we could see even more challenging times ahead than what we have just traversed. Whatever comes - whether good or bad - I am resolved that my "lifeline" for 2010 will be:

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:7-9