Gratefully

"You make the going out of the morning and the evening to shout for joy."

Psalm 65:8b

It is a beautiful, albeit cold, day here in the part of the world that I live in.  The sun is shining which is unusual for this last day of 2015.  It is quiet in the house.  Dan is already outside with the chainsaw across the bridge cutting up a downed tree for firewood.  Stuff that makes him happy.  I plan on going outside too but the wind is a bit crisp and icy.  Not being as tough as I used to be, I guess.  

Last night Dan and I sat in our chairs (yes, we have our own chairs now and yes, I know that it is an old people thing to do) with a fire in the fireplace and commented on how nice it is.  We have a roof over our heads.  We are warm and cozy, safe and sound.  We have had wonderful times of celebrations around the holidays.  There have been lots of family and friends, laughter and food.  It might have worn us out but we are happy and content leaving smiles on our faces.  

These are the thoughts that are going through my head this last day of the year.  Thoughts of the good things that God has given.  I recognize that life can, and often is, hard.  But today as I look at the landscape of this life my heart is overflowing with the goodness and kindness of the Lord.  I know that it could all disappear tomorrow but even if that happens it won't erase the memory of today. 

"Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, 

thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide, 

strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,

blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside."

 

As I think about the coming year I don't know what is in store for us.  I do know that all good things come from His hand.   He gives and He takes for His purposes and our good.  Today is a reminder of that.  I see tangible good things (what to me looks good).  Tomorrow fears and doubts might jump on piggy backing until I fight them away.  But it is nice to have days of pleasantness that help us fight through the moments of the uglies.

Lydia got Dan a bird feeder for Christmas.  She wasn't so sure about it until I convinced her that her dad had been talking about feeding the birds just the week before.  Today, it is myself that is enjoying the watch.  Fascinating, really, that the birds would know that this thing hanging would have food for them.  We have a number of bird feeders around the place.  Dan's folks also have put some out so there is plenty of birdy things happening.  Another good reminder of God's watch/care of us.  Really, one doesn't have to look very far to see His hand.  

Happy New Year to all of you!  I hope that this next year will be one of abundance and gladness as He gives you bright hope for tomorrow. 

"You crown the year with your bounty;

your wagon tracks overflow with abundance.

The pastures of the wilderness overflow,

the hills gird themselves with joy,

the meadows clothe themselves with flocks,

the valley deck themselves with grain,

they shout and sing together for joy."