every-perfect-gift

I found these little leaves bravely unfolding here at the end of December, persisting against all odds with the hope of life.  They don’t stand a chance of survival with at least 4 months of winter ahead, but their tenacity stirs hope in me.

“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  

And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”  ~ Romans 5:1-5

Hope does not disappoint.  The odds may be stacked against me, life may be difficult, but hope remains.

To the praise of His glory,

brenda

Life is full of twists and turns.

Some we anticipate, prepared to lean into them, even looking forward to what’s around the corner.

Others catch us unaware, and we find ourselves scrabbling to get a grip, something to cling to that will keep us on the road.

Sometimes we end up off the road, trying to navigate uncharted territory and wondering if we’ll ever get back to the road at all.

Sometimes we slide off so gradually we don’t even realize we’re not on the road anymore.

About 6 months ago I slid off the creative road I’d been traveling as my father-in-law’s health began to fail dramatically.  He had lived with us for 8 years, and began needing much more hands-on care.  Then came the nursing home when he couldn’t walk anymore.  And eventually hospice.

His funeral was last week.

Strangely, it wasn’t until I began going through photos for his memorial service that I even realized I’d set aside my photography and blogging…and how much I missed it.

Often it’s the way of grace for something new to come from something that ends…and even in sorrow, hope is renewed.

So by God’s grace, I’m back on the road…with a new view, anticipating the turns to come.

To the praise of His glory,

brenda