Usually my birthday is a time I choose to look back on my year and take stock of what has happened. And look ahead to see what the next year may bring.
This is mid-year for me, but I feel the need to do some checking in on my life.
Today is my Father’s birthday. And that seems significant. It’s his first year to spend his birthday in heaven.
We used to talk about what it’s like when you die. Especially after my mother passed. Our belief is that your spirit goes to be with the Lord. And that you will experience such a great and wonderful peace as your spirit waits to be joined with a new heavenly body to return to the earth when Jesus returns.
Looking back, it has been both a painful and a joyful year.
Painful since I was diagnosed with a rare immunosuppressive disease that came with medications that changed my lifestyle. I also lost my father’s reassuring presence here on earth.
And was diagnosed with breast cancer. Just this week had surgery to remove it.
But joyful because I spent precious time with my father at the end of his life. And I saw two sons marry the loves of their lives. And felt the love and support of so many friends as I dealt with the loss of a parent and my health.
What has your year held?
What losses do you need to grieve and bring to God for healing?
What joys bring you a sense of satisfaction and peace?
Like the words of a praise song we sing at church, the truth of Jesus Christ in my life has been borne out.
“I will look back and see that You are faithful…I’ll look ahead, believing You are able, Jesus Lord of all.”
How has God been faithful to you this year?
What do you need to rely on Him to be able to do in your life?
He is able, and He is willing.
So many of His promises reiterate just that. Open up God’s Word, the Bible. Let His promises speak to you, give you hope.
“Do not fear for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
I am praying you will listen for God’s voice in your life. And hear it. Through scripture. Through prayer. Through nature. And through your circumstances.
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