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Sometimes, I think that New Year’s Day comes at the
wrong time of year. I am always facing a bunch of tasks left over from
the old year, like taking down the Christmas tree, putting away the
decorations, writing thank-you notes and deciding what to do with
Christmas cards.
Then, there is the thought of trying to catch up
with all the work I put off during the holidays. I wonder, “Who can
think about new beginnings or goals in the midst of old concerns?”
I read about a gift received. It contained a card
that said, “May this gift encourage you in the coming year.” After
opening the package, a beautifully framed message was revealed, which
read:
“Friend, trust Me, I have everything under
control.
Love, Jesus”
These words began to change my frame of mind. I
found what I needed to face the concerns of the New Year!
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I spent a week in the company of my many
grandchildren, who, under the guidance of a family member, interviewed
me, asking many questions about my life. A few of the questions they
asked were:
“How
did you meet Grandpa?”
“How
do I resemble my parents when they were my age?”
“What
were you like when you were my age?”
“Who influenced your life the most?”
“What technology of today has made the biggest
change in your life?
“Tell us about your first date.”
“I want to know about your family vacations.”
“What gave you the idea of taking us on
adventures?”
During the time spent with each one, I marveled at
the little things they remembered. Gifts were never mentioned, but time
spent with them was the big topic. Some things mentioned were:
Making stepping stones with each grandchild for my
garden.
Delivering the Chronicle to the stores on the West
Fork, where they were given a special welcome.
Camping out in the back yard.
All grandchildren have a pair of farm boots.
Marching down Russett Road, singing their original
“Boot Patrol Cadence.”
Having a picnic or tea party under Grandpa’s desk.
Reading stories.
THE ADVENTURES!
I am blessed to have these memories too. It reminds
me that God gave Carl and me a special mission field in our seven
children. These seven have passed on love of God, love of country, and a
strong work ethic to our 16 grandchildren, who will go on to influence
an even wider circle.
It is never too late to influence the younger
generations.
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77 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR OUR
NEW
PRESIDENT
Day Sixty-Three: January 5,
2009.
15 days left until
inauguration day.
For the members of the U.S. Senate to be cleansed
of sin and purified to serve their constituencies with faithfulness and
godliness.
“And since we have a great priest over the
house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full
assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a
guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us
hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is
faithful.” --Hebrews
10:21-23.
O God of promises, I praise and thank You today for
keeping every promise You have made--and for Your ultimate promise of
salvation which is in Jesus Christ, Your Son. Thank You for Your
untiring faithfulness which secures a place in Heaven for me.
Today, I ask for blessings on the members of the
United States Senate--those newly elected and those who have served for
years. O God, as these dedicated men and women prepare to serve our
nation in the 111th Congress, I ask that You cleanse and purify them so
they may serve You and our nation with faithfulness and godliness. In
Your holy name, amen.
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