Reflections

I'm not talking about the kind when you look in a mirror, as that can be disconcerting, at best. Your mental image of yourself never quite aligns with what the mirror shows

I'm talking about contemplative time..reflecting on the past. This time of night is my quiet time. Kids are in bed, wife is reading, dog is sleeping. I don't hit the hay for at least another 2 hrs, so my mind has time to delve into memories, distant and recent.

The first thing that comes to my mind is my faith in Christ. I've had it for such a long time and it is such a part of me, I can't imagine life without it. I don't want to imagine how my life would have been without it. It has been a source of comfort, strength and peace. Even when all seemed lost, Christ touched me and I was found. He has gotten me to this point in my life and for that I am eternally thankful.

The second thing I think about is my wife and children, neither of which I would have if it wasn't for God's hand guiding me. She is such a blessing to me. I wonder, how can she love me? Why does she love me? The best answer I get is "because I do". She shows her love for me every day in so many ways. I thank the Lord for bringing her into my life. With her, I am fulfilled. Without her, I would be just a shell. And my kids.. what joy they bring! To have watched them be born, a miricale in its own right, and to grow and mature and learn... it's been a rollercoaster ride for certain, but the blessings outweigh the struggles. To have seen them accept Christ .. my heart almost burst with joy and happiness. Helping them in their walk and see the growth they have had so far..praise Jesus! It's an awesome feeling to be used in such a way. This is something that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.

So as I reflect and think back on my life and my experiences, light has overcome the darkness. Yes, my life has not been a bed of roses. If I were to reflect only on the darkness, the future would seem bleak indeed and not worth living. There had been many obstacles in my path that I overcame only through the power of Christ. Light overcame the darkness. Focusing on the light reminds me of everything God has done for me and makes the future worth wanting to see what else he has in store for me.

Count your blessings, name them one by one... count your blessings and see what the Lord has done