Anticipation, Celebration, and Joy

Without a doubt, this season is one of my favorites. It is always marked by gift wrapping, the loudness of family, New Year's resolutions, hyper activity, and general craziness. It is also, though, a time of anticipation, celebration and joy. We lay aside the daily rhythm and celebrate our families, the birth of our Savior, and the opportunity for a new start.

Over Christmas, I had the opportunity to navigate my way across the English Channel to visit Scotland and celebrate with the Jacksons, friends of our family. For me, it was a really blessed time. Though I missed my own family, it was great to be welcomed into another family.  Their generosity and love were truly a witness to me of what it means to have Christ at the center of your life.

Following Christmas, my eager expectation was finally fulfilled when I looked down the arrivals corridor at the Heathrow airport in London and caught Josh's eye.  With matching smiles and illuminated faces, we probably looked the most alike than we ever have before.  It was such a blessing to get to spend time with him, laughing, sharing stories, talking things over, and exploring a small part of Europe.  It will definitely be one of the new year beginnings that I will never forget.

As I was unpacking this morning and starting a load of laundry, I realized that this little adventure that I have just returned from is so small in the grand scheme of things, yet the Lord was still able to use it and work through it.  Through my time in Scotland, He reminded me of what it means to be a Christian and openly live as one.  During my adventures with Josh, the Lord showed me again that this journey is not meant to be walked alone and that He has placed people in our path who support us and encourage us to grow.  Lastly, when I returned, I found that He has renewed my zeal to serve and follow Him wherever He leads.

 "Here is my life, Lord: heart, mind and body.

My soul's surrender, take it for your own.

And you will lead, I know, where only love can go.

Here is my life, O Lord, my life for you. "

- Here is my Life by Ed Conlin