Looking Back, Moving Forward

As I look back on 2015 I'm amazed at how much happened, and even more amazed at how hard the year was. I think what made it so hard was that it was full of so many wonderful memories that have been tainted with pain of some kind. I cannot remember the good things without also remembering the hard things.

The year started off with so much hope as I followed the Lord on a path of learning to love. However, as the months went on I was finding myself full of anxiety and fear. I again needed to surrender my expectations for the outcome and trust that where God was leading is good. In turn, I experienced an immense amount of pain and heartache overshadowing many of the joys happening around me. Chicago had forever imprinted itself in my heart with both beautiful and hard memories. But I resolved to move home in hopes of finding something new, and the year ended looking up as I tried to sort through the journey I had just been on. All of my experiences have taught me something as I constantly found myself being carried in the grace of God. I am incredibly grateful for each of these memories, the good and the hard because they have been the pruning in my life and have produced more Christ-like fruit in me. 

As I begin 2016, John 15:11 is on my heart as my hope for what this year will be characterized by: "These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full." I want to experience the fullness of joy as I abide in Christ's love this year. I look forward with expectancy for what He has for me.