Counting Blessings

There’s something about the end of the year that makes me look back and see what all has gone on.  What a year!  It was full of news both good and bad on local and national levels.  We’ve lost major public figures, and I’ve lost people as close to me as a neighbor and a relative.  People have fallen, and light has been shed on their devastating life decisions.  Some are waking up and finding themselves in places they never thought they would be.  Loss has played a major role in 2009.  I don’t know if you’ve experienced it, whether death or in another way, but it has sealed my eyes and brought my words to God many times. 

Still, as I find myself in Christmas card writing mode, I cannot help but count my blessings.  I am so thankful for the way I’ve seen God work, and for the miracle of needs being met.  God is in control, and He is working within everything that is going on.  I love Him for that.  I love the way He continues to show us brighter days.  I love how, if you shed enough light on a situation, you will see God’s fingerprints all over it.  He is with us, and He is there for you.

I am very blessed to be employed in a poor economy.  Each week, I get to go to a church where I learn and grow, serve and worship freely, and fits my preferences in style and environment.  I never have to wonder what I’m doing for Thanksgiving or Christmas.  I have a family that loves me.  I have friends all around me who have been there for me by helping me or simply by being there.  I’ve never had to do without, no matter how low finances get.  I am alive in Christ Jesus.  These are some of the things that make me rich.

I write this in a time where I have heard about hardship almost daily.  I have also heard about restoration.  I’ve watched God open new doors and continue to be the Pillar of hope. Sadness is not all I know, for my God is there for those who need Him.  He continues to be there for me in these ways, and therefore, I am blessed. 

The Lord Jesus is the Prince of Peace.  May you find His peace this Christmas season.