This feels truly remarkable.
A long pause since my last post prompts a feeling of a fresh start; my youngest son and I are currently by the warm woodstove, each with a laptop, as he tries to win a game against his brother, and I thought I'd share a moment with you!
Christmas passed quickly, offering both wonderful calm and a sense of arriving sooner than anticipated, though I received the most wonderful gift ~
All three of our sons were present for the holiday celebrations; I appreciate this moment knowing their lives are taking them to different places as they mature.
The two eldest return to college and work tomorrow, making the house feel much quieter, but tonight we celebrate our oldest's birthday with a small cake.
Thus, a new year commences.
I've been considering this recently; my friend Kim chooses an annual 'theme,' a concept I enjoy and wish to adopt again this year.
However, I cannot settle on a concise phrase to guide my next 365 days, even though setting goals is appealing, I lack clear direction.
Currently, many aspects of my life are uncertain; I do not know how long I will cook at the camp kitchen, nor the future of this blog, which is tricky for home decor and craft posts when I'm rarely at home!!
Yet, my heart and mind find peace in Psalm 23.
“The Lord is my Shepherd I shall not want.”
Praise be to Him; my uncle, a former sheepherder, emphasized the shepherd's vital role for sheep, noting how simple they are!
“He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.”
{photograph taken at Butchart Gardens, Victoria, BC}
It brings solace knowing my heavenly Father is lovingly guiding my present and future life; during busy, tiring times, He ensures moments of green pastures and quiet waters.
“Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.”
I wouldn't label this period the “darkest valley,” but cooking for 130 people recently felt “over my head” and somewhat frightening!!:) Such moments reveal the blessing of trusting Someone strong enough for what I cannot manage.
I desire to follow where He directs me and perform what He calls me to do.
I often overcomplicate the idea of “following Jesus,” making it seem overly complex and obscure.
But, truly, isn't it straightforward?
My aim is to walk the course He has prepared for me.
And He promises to be the leader and travel guide.
Perhaps I do have a theme after all…
“Step by Step”.
