merry CHRISTmas

happy december, all!

what a remarkable year this has been...i really cannot believe it's about to come to a close. while i think i have confessed it seemed to drag on earlier in the year, in retrospect it really seems to have flown by. sunday, i had a chance to share with my new church family at the Light about God's faithfulness to me over the past year and recounting all His goodness was a good refresher for me. He has faithfully answered all the selfish and foolish questions i've asked about the wisdom of His will and set me in the midst of family in this city so far from the family i've always known. i've been equipped in new kinds of ministry and been introduced to a world of church i had never before known so intimately...or by which been so deeply burdened. i've had the chance to learn from the wisdom of other servants in ministry much more seasoned than i and passionately committed to Kingdom work.

while i am suffering from extreme Christmas break fever at the moment, the last two weeks have been so full of joy as i have sought to be positive and intentional in my time at the office. i'm astounded by God's faithfulness that reaches even to the little things of life...He is so very good and gracious with me.

we were putting together some praises for our embrace newsletter today- let me share a few with you!

Praise for the 80+ events already planned and scheduled for 2009

Praise for Theresa’s quick and full recovery and return to work

Praise for newly engaged BBA churches

Praise for pastors networking together for future ministry collaboration

these are just a few things for which to thank the LORD as we look to a brand new year. i can't wait to see what all He holds in store for us.

i leave on thursday afternoon (2 days!) for Arkansas. i'm so looking forward to seeing some sweet familiar faces and sharing a little more with my prayer warriors at first baptist, rogers. you all have been such a source of strength and encouragement for me and i pray you know the impact of your support. see you very soon.

merry Christmas, all...may you experience the joy, presence and power of Christ in a brand new way this Christmas. much love. :)