On my two trips to the Ukraine it's the first thing I noticed they were missing. Hope, that twinkle in their eye. The thing in our souls that tells us everything somehow in some way will indeed be all right. Despite what ever hardships we're facing. It's a word I wear on my finger and a word Billy and I have discussed quite a bit in our journey. A new year, a fresh opportunity to be happy for others. I have bowed out of a couple of baby showers because my sorrow I'm sorry to say eclipsed me being able to be happy for others to attend and I hurt a friend in the process. I should be selfless enough to set my own feelings aside. As I had written for many years on my computer at work. "Don't be too lazy to learn or too arrogant to think I don't need to" So I learn it's not worth losing friends over. Pain can be a catalyst for good. It's a glimpse in to our character and foundation. A choice to become embittered, beaten, hopeless, angry, hardened, guarded and withdrawn or to look towards the Lord for guidance and do better, fresh hope, forgiveness in ourselves and others, more compassionate, giving the benefit of the doubt and to initiate and reach out. My other hope is, I'm a couple of days late. Even if this turns out to be nothing, I just want to honor God and rise up instead of curling up in disappointment over no #20. To attend this next month's baby showers what ever my personal circumstances are and truly only from the strength of God support and encourage these women.
Romans 5:1-5
Peace and Hope
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
Our Anniversary
5 comments:
Rachel and I are up this morning eating bananas and eggs when I pulled up your site...first thing out of her month LOUD was BILLY!!! OK...she is in love with both of you. What a blessing the two of you are to our family! I have to tell you I woke last night (or this morning at 4 am) and couldn't sleep. I just began praying and one of my requests is that He would bless you this year with news of a baby and that during this year you would not lose hope. I'm always inspired when I feel God answer so clearly as to see the title of your page. The sermon yesterday encouraged me that no matter what this year holds...God is with us. I know you show that in your life. Thank you for being so honest through this journal, but know that no matter if you are smiling or crying that I love and respect you so much for how you and Billy have continued to care so much for others during this trial.
Wow, well Billy was up at 4 this morning too. He headed to Walmart to get himself cough syrup. If I was a lighter sleeper I might have heard him and been up to. Thank you for your prayers. I did start this morning.
Lori, what a sweet post. I am sorry about the news you got this morning, but I will continue to have hope for you. Look forward to seeing you soon at small group!
Every time I come here to read your words I am amazed at your attitude of honesty, maturity, and resilience. It all comes back to one thing...faith. I am so proud of you for continuing to look to God and not letting Satan get his grip on you. We continue to pray for you guys, especially in this new year. I have missed you over the holidays. Can't wait to see you this week!
I love your positive attitude, especially now in the new year. Chad and I were very recently reminded how many wonderful blessings we do have. Thank you for praying for our family. Please know we are doing the same for you! See you tonight!
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