I just tossed my 2013 calendar in the trash can. As I pulled it out of my purse, I thought about all the things that transpired in my life this year.
In January, I got my first taste of what its like to be a working mom and let me tell you, it's tough. When you're involved in your church and work, life can be crazy hectic anyway. Throwing a baby in the mix makes you wonder how you thought you were so busy before. Looking back I realize, I had all kinds of free time last year!!
In March, I tagged along with my husband for my first trip as an evangelist's wife. He had preached out of town before, but prior to that weekend I never accompanied him before. That was an experience. An entire weekend spent in a hotel with a 3 month old baby, a baby with reflux at that, hoping the 30 bibs I had brought with us would actually last for 3 days. I remember praying that Drayton would behave during the services on Sunday. I don't think I'll ever forget it. Thankfully, the Smiths are very kind people and didn't act like they minded Drayton's constant fussing!
In August, we went on what turned out to be our last "youth trip." Many memorable things happened that week...several bus breakdowns, issues finding restaurants open/able to serve a group of 40, unbelievable church services, amazing preaching...It was incredible to see the lives of those so precious to us being changed. Hearing several say things like "God spoke to me tonight" or "I feel God calling me." While at NAYC, I also got a call from my mom that the doctor had pronounced her "cured" of pemphigus vulgaris. Something we had been told would never happen!
In September, after much prayer and many, many tears cried, we stopped working with the youth group. It was by far the hardest decision made this year. I still miss my girls (and guys...well, some of them anyway :)) so much. I feel so at peace with our decision, yet I still wish it hadn't been something we needed to do...if that makes any sense at all!
In October, we celebrated our sweet little Drayton turning 1 year old. We couldn't imagine life without the little stinker. He's such a silly bundle of boyish fun. I love his squeals and laughter!! Nothing in the world will brighten a dreary day like when he stops playing, runs over and gives you a spontaneous little hug.
In November, Dathaniel and I celebrated 5 years of marriage. We had a great time traveling to Savannah and then to Charleston. When Dathaniel asked me several months ago where I would like to go, I had an immediate response! I had dreamed of visiting Savannah and Charleston since the first time I read Gone With the Wind in 4th grade. It was a dream come true for me. I got to imagine life as Scarlett O'Hara for an entire 5 days!!!
I can't believe how quickly time has flown by. Now, we are looking with great expectation at the dawn of 2014. I can definitely say I hope there are less "firsts" next year. We are in a period of waiting, so maybe there won't be any firsts. Then again, maybe the waiting will end and we'll have a mountain of firsts. Either way, we are in God's hands.
As we get ready to celebrate the birth of our Savior, I've been thinking a lot about Mary's experience when she was visited by Gabriel. We've heard the story told so many times, we've read about it so many times, and yet it is still amazing to ponder. This year I've been thinking Mary would have been around the same age as my niece, Camryn. I can't fathom Camryn being a mother, much less being the Messiah's mother!! I wouldn't even let her babysit Drayton! How fearful must the angel's announcement have made her. What a terrifying task to be given. I don't think any task God could possibly give me could ever compare to her's.
I began reading Jesus, The One and Only this week (for at least the 3rd time) and for whatever reason, just yesterday I realized, that when Gabriel said in Luke 1:31, "you are to give him the name Jesus," it was the very first proclamation of our Savior's name. This is the first time He is referred to as Jesus. The name at which every knee will bow. A name I've called on in many trials. A name I pray over my child every day of his life. A name that holds more power than any other. That name heals the sick and causes demons to flee. Oh, how I love the name!!
Jesus...the hope of the world. A fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.
No matter what God may request of us in 2014, with every great task there also comes a promise and a new hope.
I hope we can all look to the future without fear, but with baited breathe...waiting for the promises of God to unfold in our lives.
Merry Christmas friends!
Amberly
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