Happy new year!

by Mary Spence
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Isaiah-9-6 NIV[6] For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

      As I sit here basking in the glow of my Christmas tree sipping coffee with my purring cat warming my lap I find myself reflecting on how different Christmas is for me now. I have two grown children who no longer live at home. They have blessed us with four beautiful grandchildren. We celebrate Christmas on a different day than the actual day so my grandkids can enjoy the day at home. When mine were growing up we spent too many years racing here and there trying to please everyone and see each of our parents. I don't  want that for them. However its different at my house on Christmas now. If you are feeling this too let me assure you that different isn't bad. I've had time to reflect on the reason for the season. I've been able to enjoy relaxed time with my church family, my child who is still at home and my husband. I've reflected on the new year approaching. I've decided to approach this new year as a fresh start. I have a new perspective this year. As I've aged I have found God becoming more and more the center of my life. I think first of Him when I wake up and last of Him before sleep. I've learned that I am His favored one. That His love for me has a depth and width that I will never understand. And as I walk through hard stuff today I know that I am not alone. God is with me in every single minute.  I've been blessed in so many ways. This is a year of renewal for me. 
      So if you are also experiencing different this year, I encourage you to look around. Spend time with your Father. Read the word. Embrace a chancevto move closer to God. Look for the reason for the season. He is all around you. 
      Thank you father, For loving me deeply and unconditionally. I am so grateful for the opportunity every day to try again. That no matter what you will never stop loving me. I am thankful that you are teaching me each day to rely upon you alone, for my safety, my joy and my peace. If it comes from you nothing can shake it; not disappointment or loss or pain. Nothing. I love you Lord, with all that is within me and I am grateful. Amen