When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost
Count your many blessings name them one by one
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done
Count your blessings, name them one by one
Count your blessings, see what God hath done
Johnson Oatman Jr.
too many to list. I could talk on and on about them, because there are too many to count.
Psalm 40:5 - ERV
Psalm 23:6 - The Voice
I am blessed to be part of a loving, caring church family. Your support and encouragement throughout these past months has been a gift to me and Janice. Thank you for the compassion and grace you have extended to us. One of the great joys in my life is to be sharing the journey together with friends at Valley.
Beyond our church family, we have also been encouraged by friends who have walked with us for many years. The older I get the more I have come to appreciate these on-going friendships. Though time and distance may separate us, the bond of love we share holds us together.
Our children and grandchildren continue to be a source of joy in our lives. It's hard to believe our youngest will turn 30 this year, even harder to grasp the fact that we now have four grandsons! As God continues to write the story of our family, we are overwhelmed by His kindness to us.
Proverbs 18:22 - NLT
It is not an exaggeration to say, 'I don't think I could have navigated this season without Janice by my side. She has literally picked me up when I have fallen. To call out to her and know her tender care has been one of God's blessings in my life this past year. It has been humbling to have to let her cut the grass or shovel the driveway because I just couldn't take another step, but if you saw her wave her hand, 'give it to me', you would know I had no choice! I love her quiet, gentle spirit and caring heart. She tells me she still needs me to open the jar of pickles, so I guess she'll put up with me a little longer!
Friends, I share these reflections to remind us that our God has been and will continue to be gracious and kind as we move into the year 2023. Happy New Year!
the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Numbers 6:24-26