As we head into the last weekend of 2016, our family's reflecting on where we've been and where we're going. Was 2016 as hard for you as it was for us? We will all collectively celebrate the turning of a new year in just two days, but some journeys and seasons in life simply don't reset just because the calendar says it's a new day.
As always, new beginnings start in our hearts.
For me, it begins with giving praise for all Christ has done to redeem us and to give hope to our foolishness. But it also begins with tracing back through, and not forgetting, what waters He's brought us through this year, and how we've learned to praise Him, even when they're not waters we choose to tread.
2016 gave new meaning to Job's words: "The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” (Job 1:21)
From the start of the year, when my oldest son and I traveled with Compassion Bloggers to Ecuador.
...To the unexpected opportunity to fulfill a family dream of creating a respite in Durango, Colorado,
...To Troy coming to the end of his 8 year journey as headmaster of a classical school we were part of founding,
...To writing and painting my first book, due to release in September 2017,
...To a painful season of goodbyes and new beginnings,
...To the best and the hardest moments in training young hearts,
...And to ending the year looking at one another as a family, and as a small business, and marveling at His bountiful blessing, first and foremost displayed in grace, everyday.
The One who's birth we celebrated just days ago - Emmanuel - has been faithful and merciful at every turn. His hand has guided and provided for us as a family in both physically and emotionally.
And as a small business owner, I thank you, on behalf of my family and the GraceLaced Team, for not simply purchasing my artwork and products in 2016, but for joining us as we seek to adorn the gospel of Christ and make the beauty of God's Word and creation known. He is worthy; we are honored to reflect His glory.
I'm excited for what 2017 may bring, but as we prepare to share these changes and things to come, I keep in mind: Let your will be done, Lord.
“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.”
If there's one thing I learned in 2016, through the fire of refining by the Lord's hand, it's that I want no plan that is not of Him and in Him and for His glory.
To that end, Lord, lead us into 2017...to Christ be the glory for all that is to come.
In case you missed it in our newsletter, or on social media, we are closing out the year with a huge Inventory Clearance SALE!
GraceLaced Hope In the Desert 2017 Calendars are 50-70% off, popular prints and all Christmas products are marked down, and many prints are discontinuing. Prices good while supplies last! Sale ends 11:59pm MST 1/1/17!
Because of grace,
