Something to look forward to...the pirates are coming back!

Journey, an update 1-7-08

“For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will – to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.” Ephesians 1:4-8

The turning of the calendar to a new year is always an opportunity for reflection. In the past year I encountered trials and blessings, sorrow and joys. Life’s lessons do not generally come easily. One of the things that I have found over and over again in my walk with God is that the closer He draws me to His amazing and holy presence, the more I realize what a sinful creature I am at the very core of my being. I think that especially now that I find myself out of my “comfort zone” I often see deeper into my true nature than I ever have the opportunity to see when life is easier. Praise God, He is SO FAITHFUL and he continues to mold me into the woman that He would have me to be.

In light of these reflections I couldn’t help but be stopped speechless by the reminder of Ephesians 1. I am holy and blameless in God’s sight, because of the blood. Though I am constantly humbled by my shortcomings and drawn to my knees by my weaknesses, God doesn’t see my failures or my sins. He sees me holy and blameless. He sees me through the blood: a reflection of His glorious Son.

Yesterday I heard a David Crowder song that I wasn’t familiar with. These are the words that caught my attention and reflected so beautifully the message of Ephesians 1.

“You make everything glorious

and i am Yours

what does that make me?"

So today I am reveling in the reminder that God sees me not as I am but as I will be. He sees His finished work in me. What an amazing realization to take into the New Year!

It's Cold Outside

I had seen this video before but it still made me laugh this time around. I thought it appropriate to share today since it is a chilly 16 degrees (F) outside. The sun did peek out for a short time today in between some light snow. Hope you are staying warm!