old friends

This Christmas break I was introduced to Face Book. While the process has been fun, it has made me realize how valuable long-time friends . I was able to connect to many that John and I had known while in the pastorate 24 years ago. Those friendships have provided stability and warmth in our lives over the years. They ministered to us in our first ministry and have become more valuable over the years. I realize, too, that many of those friends have gone through difficult times with us and allowed us to partner with them in their times of struggle. It also has allowed me to see how the Lord has mellowed and matured all of us by His grace and Spirit. I'm finding myself a little homesick for the pastorate, but also thankful for how He has led in a variety of ministry settings. Thank you Lord for your people who have shaped my life to be more like You.

Praise for the new year

In January each year I choose a fruit of the coming year. In 2008 I asked for peace, in 2007 for joy, and for 2006 for goodness. It's enlightening for me to look back and see how the Lord both knew what I needed to ask Him for in the coming year as well as to see how He produced those characteristics in my life through specific situations. This year, I've realized that more than a specific fruit, I need to ask Him for a spirit of praise no matter what the circumstances that come in 2009. David Jeremiah recently spoke about how Mary and Joseph never anticipated what would happen to them following their betrothal. Some of their plans materialized, others didn't, and there was a mix of both struggle and joy. Yet God was glorified as He unfolded their story. May I praise Him this year in how He chooses to unfold my story He has planned for me.