Monday, December 20, 2010

More Of Him

This sweet, little tree is on the mountain that sits to the east of my home.  Every year since I've lived here, someone decorates this tree on the side of the road.  I've lived here 17 years and every year when we drive up the mountain road, there is that tree, lovingly decorated for Christmas.  I have no idea who does it, but we look forward to seeing it and we would be sorely disappointed if one year it was gone.  I haven't been up the mountain this year, but I'm sure it's been decorated once again.  There's something very reassuring when things are always consistent, year after year.

This year has been a year of disruption and learning to deal with a new "normal".  In March, my mother-in-law came to live with us and our home has not been the same for one moment since.  In early October, I fell and injured my back, herniated 2 of my discs, which gives me a grand total of 3 damaged discs. My youngest son is still dealing with his back issues, too.  My husband has had one eye operation after another in the hopes of stopping the leakage behind his eyes due to his diabetes. I lost my sweet, precious poodle, Tammy Lou, in late October after having her for 12 years. Yes, it's been a year of tremendous change!

Other changes that have definitely brightened my life are my role as a Bible study leader and working an afternoon in my church office.  Seeing my sons working together in college and working toward their futures has been wonderful. Making so many wonderful, new friends and re-connecting with other friends has blessed me beyond measure.  Having the Lord open so many doors for us to grow in character and walk closer with Him is definitely the greatest blessing. He uses the bad things to grow us in the good things - they really go hand in hand.  It's not always easy to remember that or be content in that, but it is still true.

I don't want to make it sound like I wake up every morning and thank the Lord for my mother-in-law or my pain.  I don't.  I have to talk with Him for awhile before I'm able to let it go and praise him for even those things.  I also confess that I'm still working on it - day by day.  I'm still having attitude issues regarding all these things but through Christ, who strengthens me, I will be able to lay it all down at the foot of his throne and THANK him for these things.

I'm praying for more of Him and less of me. . . daily!

God bless you - Julie

3 comments:

  1. Great post Julie. I've been praying for you (especially for your MIL living with you). You hadn't mentioned her lately, and I was wondering if that situation had improved. I enjoy reading your blog. Merry Christmas!

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  2. Bless your heart Julie...we have had years like this too and they are so difficult. Keep looking up, our Lord loves you so much and he will give you exactly what you need.

    Christmas blessings,
    Joyce

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  3. Good thoughts, Julie!
    Merry CHRISTmas!

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