Year's End.

2009 is drawing to a close. This has been a tough year for my family as well as a year of great personal growth. As I think back over the last 12 months that make up this year I am overwhelmed with God's provision and grace. I see His fingerprints on every area of my life. On every month, or every week on every day.

To sum up a little of what has happened in my life in '09:

My family has experienced the pain of losing loved ones. We are certainly no strangers to this fact of life but it has been tough coping with the physical loss of my grandma and uncle as well as the emotional disconnect from my Oma. His grace has been sufficient in these times, even when it was hard to see.

I graduated with my associates degree in business in May. While I am excited for this accomplishment, I have decided that my traditional schooling days are over. One day I would love to attend seminary or a missions college and devote my study to the Bible.

I completed 3 years of service with my employer this May and pushing on toward the 4th year coming up in 5 short months. I don't always show it, but I am grateful for His provision with a steady job that provides for my needs.

God has blessed me with the opportunity to serve in a variety of capacities this year. It has been a joy to work on the leadership team of the church's food pantry and watch the Lord open so many doors and provide for the pantry on a weekly basis.

This summer I spent a week at youth camp. What I thought to be a nice filler for mission trip plans that fell through God used to change my life. He opened my eyes to the call of missions and ministry on my life and I decided to answer the call. I have spent the remainder of this year seeking His will for my life in 2010.

I have fallen more in love with Jesus than at any other point in my life. He has made Himself so clear to me and I look forward to each day that I learn more of Who He is and what He desires of me. I am so thankful for the journey that my faith is.

As a family we have been forced to develop some new holiday traditions. In 2009 the dynamics of my family has changed, this change is bittersweet.

God's provision for my family is clearly evident. Like so many others in today's economy, we struggle but He is mighty and loving. We have food on the table, a roof over our head and not to mention so much more. I am so thankful for the many many ways He provides. Also, very thankful that He has softened my hearts to the needs of others.

These things are just part of what made up 2009. I don't know what 2010 holds but I trust that He does. I look forward to all that is in store. I rest assured that whatever this new year holds, whether good or bad, whether seen or unforeseen that He holds all the answers. I am so thankful I don't! I expectantly wait for all that I will learn, all that will change and everything that I will experience. I anticipate meeting new people to love and build relationships with. I desire to savor each moment. But mostly I want to run. To run toward His best, whatever He has for me.