Around this time of year, I am faced with a big decision: which photo to print for my family’s Christmas card. I know, it sounds silly, but bear with me while I explain.
I love the holidays and all the things that come with them, including sending out cards. It’s just something I’ve enjoyed doing since I was a teenager.
This year, we had the opportunity to take pics on a beach. They turned out beautifully and my family looks amazing. So it seems like a no brainer that I would just select one of them.
Yet, I can’t decide because I’m disheartened.
These pics remind me that we’re in 2020, the year where more has appeared to have gone wrong rather than right. For me personally, most of the year was spent combatting sinus issues to the point where surgery was needed. But before surgery was considered, I went through a gamut of medications to treat them. Sadly, my face could not hide the visible side effects of those medications in the pics.
As a result, there have been a number of feelings coursing through my veins: disappointment and frustration, to name a few. Those feelings become exacerbated as I think about 2020. So with Thanksgiving this week, I can’t help but wonder what on earth I should be grateful for.
Maybe you can relate. Perhaps you’ve lost your job this year or your plans for the holidays were canceled.
As I was in the middle of the blues, the word REMEMBER was impressed upon my heart.
I decided to scroll through the pics with that word in mind. I found myself remembering the moment those pictures were captured. Every family member is well and healthy to have been a part of it. We all have plenty to eat and lovely homes to live in. Most importantly, we have the blessing of calling each other family. Suddenly, I was flooded with gratitude … and I found the courage to share one pic with you :)
I realized I needed to apply the same word to this year. In the midst of limited outings and interactions, I remembered the video calls I’ve had with loved ones, the new recipes I’ve tried, the hard conversations we’ve had to reach a place of understanding … and I am grateful.
As I paused to remember, I was reminded of these truths:
God is constant: “… the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8 ESV)
God is good: “… His steadfast love endures forever!” (1 Chronicles 16:34 ESV)
God is sovereign: “The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all.” (Psalm 103:19 ESV)
Dear Friend, I pray that you remember how great the Lord’s faithfulness is. “I will ponder all Your work, and meditate on Your mighty deeds.” (Psalm 77:12 ESV) May gratitude overflow from your heart knowing that God is faithful. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV)
~Joyce
