My new year box holds some plans and expectations: Darryl's two week absence for his DMin program, Josiah's seventh birthday, Christina's grade 6 graduation, Mom & Dad's 45th anniversary, Mom's retirement, a family trip to England (hopefully!), Christina's 12th birthday and a few other surprises!
When I check more carefully I find that I have many other expectations: ongoing life, health and joy. But looking back at 2005 and back further to 2004 and 2003, I can not help but recognize that the life that God gives may include death, hardship and despair (no reference to our dog implied!)
My greatest joy in 2005 was a two minute message given by my father and the subsequent prayer offered by my mother at our Christmas meal together. Their passion for Christ flowed freely from their hearts. It is a passion cutlivated by way of incredible pain, loss and suffering in recent years. My second greatest joy in 2005 was seeing my father walk unassisted for a brief space - a miracle I did not have the courage, nor the perservance, to hope for.
Carefully, I close my 2006 box and hand it back to the Master. It never really was mine. Lord, thank you for the privilege of allowing me to see your ways and for your grace which makes it possible for my proud heart to surrender.
Lead on my king eternal.