My New Year's Resolution

I've never really been one to make resolutions when the year comes to a close, but I know so many people do - going on a diet, getting more exercise, quitting smoking, and the list goes on.  But this year, I feel compelled. Of course, with the holidays over and schedules returning to routine, my eating/exercise habits will return to where they should be. But the thing I feel compelled to do is to love more deeply. True, it isn't measurable on a scale or tape measure, a stopwatch or pocketbook; but this is something that I will evaluate daily as I lay my head on the pillow at the end of the day: did I approach everyone with sincerity and respect, choosing to look into the eyes and heart of the people I meet, looking past any outward appearance; did I embrace my husband, parents, siblings, children as though it's the only or last time I'd have the chance; are the words, "I love you," being poured forth flippantly, or is it coming deeply from within? Did I cherish the moments I had with the people who surround me; holding hands a little longer; taking time to stop, breathe and really listen; gently stroke my daughter's hair as she sleeps on my lap...moments that pass all too quickly, but can remain in memories for a lifetime. And most importantly, am I finding my greatest satisfaction and joy in pursuing Christ, the One Who loves me more deeply than I can imagine. If I can but grasp a fragment of His love and learn from Him, I will have succeeded in fulfilling my resolution - only then will I know how to love others more deeply.

A snowy morning

I have always hated the cold weather; I find that I have less and less tolerance for being chilled, and out-of-doors in the winter in Michigan seems like the illogical place to be.  But this morning, I headed out for a wintery walk, before the "big" snow was going to hit.  Generally, I really dislike the winter; but, this morning, something changed.

As I ventured out this morning, I bundled up and set out. The snow flakes cascaded by my face and gently laid a blanket silently all around me. And as delicately as the snow fell, a voice spoke to my heart..."Embrace it". Not literally, of course (that would be very short-lived), but figuratively.  Instead of dreading the weather and complaining about it, I felt urged to think about all the beauty it brings. During winter, everything dies...but it MUST die, that new life comes forth!  There are few things a lovely as trees that have been layered in snow.  And nothing compares with a winter silence; all the noises are muffled, and you are left alone with only your thoughts...and prayers. Instead of hoping winter passes quickly, I need to enjoy it while it lasts.

As I walked and thought of embracing that thing that I have, for years, disliked, my mind turned to my weaknesses; I was reminded of an article I'd read during the last few days about embracing our weaknesses in the new year; instead of working on improving our strengths, there needs to be an emphasis on strengthening the feeble areas in our lives.  I know there are vulnerable pieces within that I have reckoned, "that's just who I am". But, is it really?  Or is it an area of weakness in my life where God can be glorified in new, amazing ways?  Can I put feet to "when I am weak, then He is strong"?

So, there in the snowy morning, I made an altar...not literally, of course, but figuratively. I will always remember the journey my heart took this wintery day, and the decision I made to allow Christ to live in me in a greater way, that the fame of His great name would spread.

And I don't think I will ever feel the same about winter!