Reflections

 As this year comes to a close and a new one begins, I always reflect on the past few months.  There have been highs and lows - times on the mountaintop and times in the valley.  There have been smiles and laughter - tears and sadness.  Praise - and prayer.  Much prayer.  My word for this last year was Hope.  Little did I know when the year began how appropriate 'hope' would be for what came our way.  In the words of the old hymn, we found 'strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow'.  As we look forward to a new year that will begin in just a few, short hours, not only do we continue to hope - we continue to give thanks and offer prayer for the unknown that is ahead.

 

Our year brought new life. . .

And new beginnings. . .



 

Travels to see family far away. . .

And quiet moments at home.

Time with our daughter's family (and my dear, little mother). . .

And our son's family, too.

Work. . .

And play.

 

On the last day of the year I always remember the words of a song I used to sing a lot.  I think it sums it up pretty well - we've come this far by faith.

We've come this far by faith

Leaning on the Lord

Trusting in His Holy Word

He's never failed us yet

Oh, we won't turn back

We've come this far by faith

 

I wish you a very Happy New Year, dear friends.  We've come this far by faith - so, let's go forward by faith!