Hi from DC — Last Post of the Year!

Hi from our nation’s Capitol! This is a picture of my husband and me in front of the National Museum of American History earlier today:

I had so hoped to finished my reflections on the book of Mark before 2013 came to a close, but sadly, that proved to be impossible. Between completing our licensing as foster parents, preparing my very first art museum exhibition proposal, launching my new art gallery, and traveling for the last two weeks of the year, I just could not get the time I needed to finish the book and do it justice! I have had modified devotions lately, including reading an Advent book that has been very edifying. But I simply haven’t had (made) time to write.

But I did not want the year to end without sending a short post of gratitude to all of you who are with me in our shared pursuit of living our lives in the light of scripture.

It’s so important, you know? God’s word is a light for our paths, nourishment for our minds and souls, a rock on which to stand, a mirror to show us our shortcomings, encouragement when we fail, instructions for how to improve, and so very much more.

But it is so often totally counterintuitive. The Bible tells us to forgive, when everything in us desires punishment for those who have wronged us. The Bible tells us to let our words be seasoned with grace, when it feels so good to spread gossip and cutting, critical words. The Bible tells us God’s love covers a multitude of sins, when regret and shame simply will not let us forgive ourselves.

I started this blog in the summer of 2012 because I was not living my life in the light as much as I wanted to. I was struggling to keep scripture as the most formative influence on how I live and how I love. And because I had a sneaking suspicion that I was not alone in my struggle, I decided to write my journey into a blog, inviting others to join me, hoping that, together, we could spur one another on toward love and good works, sharpening one another as iron sharpens iron.

As 2013 comes to a close today, I am grateful for this little online community of people who treasure God’s word and want to mine it for eternal treasure. Thank you for reading, commenting, and sharing. We’ll finish Mark soon, but in the meantime, I offer this prayer, a favorite of mine, for you (and for me) as we head into a new year:

The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;
the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.
(Numbers 6:24-26)

Happy new year! See you in 2014!

Love,
Christy