By God's Grace

Another Christmas ends, and a new year begins. Packed away are scenes of snowscapes and sleigh bells, snowmen and wise men, manger scenes and mistletoe, silent night in starlight, gold ribbons and bows, scented candles aglow, cinnamon spiced tea and a tinseled Christmas tree. Time to put away the sugary treats. Sigh. I think I drank enough eggnog this holiday season to float a sailboat.

New Year’s Resolutions? None. No need to aim to be a better person; I’m already sweet and humble! No need to try to eat better; I still follow my cancer diet - eat whatever I want. No need to live as long as I can; the Lord has already determined the number of my days (Psalm 139:16; Job 14:5). No need to commit to losing weight; my body will eventually do that anyway. No need to wish for peace; the Lord has blessed me with plenty.

Saturday, the 21st was our Moses Family Christmas. All my youngins gathered at David’s house for lots of smiles, hugs, sharing, praying, and singing. With Jonathan’s encouragement, Martha and Philip surprised us by flying in from Virginia. Even Sara’s dog joined in the fun. We enjoyed watching the grandkids open some of their gifts. A race car set seemed to be the biggest hit. Food was abundant as was the joy. Grandpa (me) sat in the rocking chair most of the time just taking it all in.

A couple of days later, my cancer attacked me pretty hard. Pain medication and rest seem to have gotten me through it. When those episodes happen, I never know for sure if it may be the one that ends in my ‘promotion’. But as I write, I’m feeling better, grateful that the Lord blessed me with another Christmas with my family, yet ready to go whenever He calls. I’m very much amazed that He has kept me here to ring in another year.

And for you, another year to see what God will do in your life. As always there will be ups and downs. But rejoice in the downs (James 1:2-3) because that’s where we usually experience our best fellowship with the Lord. As holocaust survivor, Corre Ten Boon would say, even in the deepest downs, the Lord is deeper still. Each day of the year, may you cherish His mercy, experience His grace, rejoice in His sovereignty, share His love, and live in His joy.