photo: justin-leibow

Christmas is over.
The out-of-town company has gone home.
Now, it is just us…and our local family members.
A New Year looms ahead.
2018. What will it hold?

We hope it will hold Ron’s 80th birthday in March,
In May, my 50th class reunion from nurses’ training in Philadelphia,
In September, our 50th wedding anniversary.
But I don’t know that it will.
Those are the upcoming milestones ahead.

As I listen to talking heads prognosticate about political trends
I have to laugh as GOD must as well.
Some of their comments will probably come true,
But others are so far off the mark that we will laugh
When we hear them repeated this time next year!

Who of us will be left standing next year?
Who will be new in terms of marriage and new babies?
In one year, so many things can change.
Jobs, marriages, death, health…
We don’t know what changes will come with this year.

We do know that GOD is the One who never changes.
His stability is often likened to a Rock or a Fortress.
That is strong!
Imagine waves that are constantly beating on a huge rock on the shore
Yet it is immovable.

Or a Fortress that is constantly being bombarded by the enemy…
But doesn’t fall.
It continues to provide protection and stability
To those who need it.
As unexpected challenges come their way.

In you, Lord, I have taken refuge;
    let me never be put to shame;
    deliver me in your righteousness.
Turn your ear to me,
    come quickly to my rescue;
be my rock of refuge,
    a strong fortress to save me.
Since you are my rock and my fortress,
    for the sake of your name lead and guide me.

Psalm 31:1-3