Hello 2021

2020 was a year of surprises.  It brought disappointment and distraction, but with that said, 2020 also brought clarity and conviction.

It is still hard to believe our world shut down. Friends and family quit gathering.  Society fought over safety and chose sides.  School and churches shut their doors and with it, connection was lost. Everything I took for granted was taken from me.

We lost our ability to listen and to respect. We put politics over people and opinions over opportunity.

I’ve wondered what kind of world my grandchildren would remember and wondered how they would cope.  But I guess, so has every grandparent throughout history.

However, when I pay attention, I see my children instill in their little humans a great desire to serve God. I watch them encourage growth and new learning.  I notice as they follow through on promises, lead with integrity and take time to teach the hard life lessons.   I observe as they stop and take in the beauty around them, and then offer my grandchildren hope.  I have seen them surround themselves with like minded families while reaching out to those who are different. They have modeled love and service, contentment and passion, hard work and the pursuit of dreams.

I do not worry about our future.

My grandchildren are prepared to face this world as are many of the children around them.  My grandchildren have been given stability in their faith and security in their homes.  They have been encouraged to see beyond the ordinary.  They are the creators, the dreamers, the artists, the musicians, the scientists, the doctors, the teachers who know no boundary.  They are open to the experiences this world has to offer and are ready to face opportunity with enthusiasm. God is raising up a new generation with ambitions of faith, hope, and love.

There is resolve in my purpose as I pursue my role in leading and guiding the younger generation.  Experience is valuable, and a lifetime of following Christ brings insight into the arena. God calls us to serve, to love, to teach, and I can’t wait to see what 2021 holds for my community. I will join my children and my church as we take a fresh start in building a better world.