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2011 in Review

    The beginning of a new year generally encourages reflection on the previous year.  Today at church all the men of the congregation stood up and gave a general update of the state of the union, if you will, from the past year.  It was encouraging and divinely challenging.  We have been so blessed as children of God, and we need to live our lives in a manner that manifests our appreciation of this familial blessing.

    I began my short time (that lasted longer than I planned) with these words from Luke 11:11-13: "What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”  God is a powerful Father, but more significantly, He is a good Father who seeks our good.  As Romans 8 tells us, He works all things for our spiritual and physical good.  That is a powerful thought that we'd do well to cherish!  God, the author of life and of all things, is concerned about our well being!  He knows what is best and has the power to accomplish it for us in our lives.  Sometimes it won't feel that way, and that's where faith in His character comes into play.  In tough situations we are called to believe firmly that God is not only able, but also willing to do what is best for us. 

    I have experienced much this year.  I have been overwhelmed with good things.  My cup has not ceased to overflow with the abundance God has provided for me.  I began a new job April 11.  I married my wife the 18th day of June.  I'm not sure why she married me.  I didn't do much to warrant her desire of such a commitment.  People say that all the time, but my mistakes in this relationship actually prove I'm right.  She has followed her Heavenly Father's example in forgiving, and I keep that fact before my eyes constantly. 

    On July 15 my wife met me at the door with a smile and a positive pregnancy test.  Four pregnancy tests later (just to make sure), we decided she was probably pregnant.  Her bulging belly and the kicking baby are growing right along and we expect a covenant child in the middle of march.  We have been blessed abundantly in preparing for our baby.  Two words: free stuff! 

     This next year promises to be even busier than last year.  I have decided to start many edifying habits this year, and I pray the Lord strengthens me in my endeavors.  God bless and Happy New Year!  May He keep our eyes on Him.
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