As we enter this new year 2023, I look back over the past year and think to myself: What have I really done in 2022? What have I accomplished? What have I learnt? Am I any wiser? In this little blog I want to review my 2022. It may not be particularly exciting but I do like to trace God's hand in my life and thank Him for all His blessings to me.
I have put together a collage of a few random photos from events in 2022 and they are in no particular order. Believe it or not, some of the first photos I took in 2022 were of our dogs.
It is not hard to conclude that they play a big part in our lives with their antics that range from Bridie fascinated by the fire and yet terrified of fireworks. Izzy howling because she didn't get for a walk with Bridie, begging human food and scared of tin foil shaking. Both of them jumping and barking at animals on the TV. But the biggest laugh we got this year was Bridie burrowing up through the hedge and breaking out. It did not matter how we fenced it, she always found a way out. So, in the end we just had to leave her in to proudly sit on her perch on the back of Adrian's chair to look out the window.
We had 2 weddings in 2022: Adrian's niece Debi's marriage to Tim; and my nephew James' marriage to Hannah. Both couples had put much preparation into planning their 'Big Days'. Marriage of one man to one woman was ordained by God. It was a joy to see these young couples make their vows to each other. We rejoice with them and wish both couples every blessing for their future together.
Also, two nights in Kilkenny were a treat for us.
In July we were so glad to get away and have a little break in the North of England. Carlisle holds special memories particularly for Adrian and it was there that we spent our honeymoon in 1986. Views from Cat Bells over Lake Derwent are stunning. However, this time Adrian chose to descend the steep path down to the waters edge. A new adventure for him to discover more beautiful scenery. Of course, the laugh of the week was me missing my step and falling into a furze bush!! I couldn't get out by myself but Adrian had to capture the moment on camera before pulling me out.
Then, in August we had the big 3 0 for Isaac. We celebrated with some crazy golf and then a meal at Stormont Hotel... a family fun time. It's over 30 years since Isaac entered our lives and it has been a privilege to have him as our son. He has brought us much joy and fulfilment. As a baby, one of Isaac's favourite places was resting his head on my shoulder. And right through life to this very day he still loves to give his mummy a big hug. This loving, kind, handsome young man has been such a blessing to us. I know God has much more planned for him in the days that lie ahead.
In April 2022 Adrian sliced his fingers with a strap at work. Ouch. One finger in particular was slow to heal, even with care and hospital visits.
New Year's Eve night we spent at hospital with Isaac after a broken jaw resulting from a football accident. Injury causes us to place our trust in Christ the Healer for healing.
Then, there was a first for Adrian... Climbing up Slieve Doan with Jemima and Josh, with Bridie and Nancy tagging along. I knew not to attempt it, so just enjoyed afternoon chatting with Carol in Newcastle. But they forwarded some lovely photos of the stunning view up there.
Thoughts for 2023
As I enter 2023, I take these two Bible verses with me:
"Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever."Hebrews 13v8 KJV
"For I am the LORD, I change not."Malachi 3v6 KJV
- Remember, 2022 is over. It has passed into eternity. We cannot bring it back. However, I have the calm assurance that the God who does not change brought me through it and He will carry me through whatever life throws at me in 2023.
- Christ is the Bridegroom who does not change. His love for me never changes. What a privilege it is to experience His unchangeable love for me every day!
- When the Lord Jesus was on earth He healed many people He met (but not everyone). He has not changed. He is still the Almighty Healer who is able to heal all our diseases.
- The God who is unchangeable is also All-Knowing, All-Powerful and present everywhere. It does not matter where I am or what situation I am in, I can trust the God who never changes to help me.
- The God who never changes is Holy and will only lead me in the paths of righteousness. I can trust Him to lead and guide me every step of the way in 2023 and HIS way is always the right way.
- I do not always understand the way He leads me or the reasons things happen but I will know one day. It's like Jesus said, "What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter."
I look forward to walking through 2023 with the LORD who never changes. What about you?