As we kick-off this new year together I wanted to share an intention with you all. People often spend time reflecting on the year close and all the possibilities of the new year. Some see opportunity to change or improve, others will keep things just the same, while yet others will challenge themselves to be and do things they never deemed possible. Well regardless of where you see yourself I pray this prayer of intention over all of us. 

"For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, for by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross." (Colossians 1:19-20)

Did you know that you are a holy people to the Lord your God? Now, holy does not mean perfect. It also is not an attribute we posses in and of ourselves. A holy people refers to chosen by God for separation unto Himself. You have been chosen by God for Himself. Ever enjoy being someone's best friend? Well the God of the universe has chosen you! 

Do ever find yourself searching for the perfect place for quality time with the Lord? For some of us this may be a quiet place where we just hear nature, yet for others this may be sitting in the middle of a crowded busy mall. I used to work with a designer who, for his best inspiration, had to sit in the midst of a bustling mall! Regardless of the “perfect” place, the desire to want to spend time with the Lord is God inspired.

One aspect of life I have come to understand profoundly through parenting is the importance of obedience. As a child and even as a young adult I knew I had to obey, but I truly did not understand how disobedience could lead to death. Even how obedience could lead to life. Admittedly I have sons who are not quick to obey, which I attribute to my delayed obedience. This delayed obedience results in me, as their mother, repeating myself over and over, and results in times of very close calls of injury. Especially, when I ask them to wait or stand still. Their delayed obedience results in them standing still pass the point of safety. Waiting in a position I did not intend. Experiencing delayed obedience from God's point of view, the one giving the commands with the ability to see the end result more clearly then the one being instructed, is very humbling. Is there delayed obedience to be dealt with in your life?