New Year, Same God

January gets a bad rap, but I like it. It’s practice, a scrimmage game for the year—a chance to test which rhythms and goals are realistic.

Our family is moving this year, or maybe not. January didn’t offer any clarity on that. After years of military life and moving around, I thought we were planting roots when we moved back. I guess all soil isn’t good for growth, and my definition of home has changed since we moved back to the place I once thought it was. 

These days, growth and home feel different.

On New Year’s Day, our family headed to the mountains for a few days. Our time and traditions change the older the kids get. 

Shortly before Christmas, I lost my whole site and some words. I created a new one, prompting me to think of new ones that define what I write about here. In the past, I described it as reflection and renewal or sharing stories I hoped would point others to Jesus. While both are true, I’ve been doing this long enough to see an overarching theme. 

I’ve written about times of uncertainty, waiting, motherhood, and adoption. How I thought they would look different. I guess the arc of my story became learning to lean into grace and let go of ideals. 

Ideals will hold you back; grace will lead you forward. 

Like many at the beginning of the year, I started reading the bible chronologically. Every time I read Genesis, I remember that our famine and flood experiences look different, but the God of covenants and blessings is the same. 

It is easy to forget when I dream in ideals.

I don’t know if we’ll have the opportunity to forge a new home for our family, but I’m trying to approach this year with open hands. It’s easier for me to welcome grace this way. 

Happy New Year, Friends. I needed this reminder and thought you might, too.