Happy New Year's

We have had a blessed year.  We spent last New Year's in Guatemala with little Sophia.  The Guatemalans celebrate New Year's in much the same way they celebrate Christmas Eve, by shooting off fireworks from midnight until two or three in the morning.  I doubt there will be fireworks in Provo, and for that I am glad.


The year has moved faster than we imagined it would.  It seemed 2008 would never end, and we would never be united with Sophia.  Then all at once, the wait was over.  Now the days seem to speed by.  Sophia is growing so fast.  She has gone from one word answers to speaking in sentences, from diapers to being potty trained, from shy wall flower to superstar.  It seems every day reveals a new aspect of her character.  


I am confident the new year is going to bring a lot of excitement and challenges.  Opportunities abound at church.  The Lord continues to bless.  There is opportunity for personal growth as well.  I'm excited to see what happens.  I hope that you all have a great year in 2010.  God bless.

Sermon Recap 12-27-2009

Morning: The message, "Humble Obedience," focused on the story of Jesus' birth from Matthew 1:18-25.  In this passage we see humble obedience in action.  Joseph demonstrates the right response to a difficult situation.  He responded to the revelation of God with faith.  He accepted Christ into his life.  He demonstrated patience.  He responded with unquestioning faith.

Evening: We looked at Micah 6:1-8 with a focus on verse 8.  The Lord compels his people to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.

Hard to Find the Words

Sometimes it is difficult to put our feelings into words.  Struggle as we may, somethings are more easily felt than expressed.  Maybe we lack the cognitive ability to comprehend them, or maybe we understand them too good?  Maybe we see the events in all their horrific agony or glorious joy, and we aren't quite willing to share them with others?  It maybe that we want to share them with others, but the feelings are too deep for words.  It is quite possible that you have no idea what I am talking about.  

Holidays are usually days filled with joy and heartache.  There is the joy of family celebrations (although I realize not everyone enjoys family celebrations, but I do). There is the joy of catching up over a good meal.  Yet there are those who are no longer there to share in the festivities.  We can't catch up with them any longer, because they have left this world.

Their absences can often weigh heavy on the mind, even in the midst of laughter.  We all have family and friends who have passed away.  We all mourn their passing.  Sometimes we talk about them, and other times we refrain, because the pain is too near.  It seems to me that many people during emotionally charged times struggle with finding the words to say because they don't really want to feel what their feeling.  I know I don't want to cry, especially in front of people, but at times its the only natural response.  In the year ahead, I hope to find the words that express my joy and my sorrow.  I hope that by expressing them that it will deepen my gratitude for them.  I also hope that you, too, (if you haven't already), find the words to express your joys and sorrows.

A Tale of Two Christmases

This time last year I was in a hotel in Guatemala getting to know my daughter. This year has flown by much faster than the previous one. I suppose it is because we didn't have wait this year for our little girl to get home.

We are miles away from the events of Christmas 2008. This year, we won't be startled by a midnight barrage of fireworks that lasts to 2 or 3 in the morning. Most likely, there won't be an attach of diarrhea for Sophia to endure. The days of sign language are behind us.

This year, we have already had the opportunity to celebrate with family and friends. Now, Sophia tells us what she wants, when she wants it, and who is to get it for her. Her hugs and kisses flow freely (most of the time), as does her laughter. Most likely, we will enjoy a silent night in our own bed tonight. We'll open presents in the morning (which is like only 40 minutes away by my reckoning), and enjoy a home cooked breakfast.

The joy is different this year, too. Last year, the joy that I felt in being united with my daughter was nearly indescribable. Although, I knew then easier days were ahead, I didn't think I could enjoy them more. I didn't realize that each day would present exciting new discoveries and adventures, or present new and challenging puzzles that would only strengthen the bonds that join us and deepen the love we have. I was naive.

Now I know that each day will provide a fresh opportunity for deeper joy. I am constantly watching Sophia to see what she will teach me. Sometimes, I watch her for the shear amusement. She is a performer at heart, funny and spontaneous, and always "on." Her quick wit keeps us on our toes. She is always working on out-thinking us, and sometimes I am afraid she will soon succeed. She disarms with her pretty smile which radiates charm, and has the power to melt almost any heart.

I don't mean to ramble. I am just reflecting on two Christmases, separated by only one year, but so different. I am reflecting on the power of the Lord, as it has been demonstrated to me through Sophia. I am reflecting on the joy that has enriched my life in ways I still don't fully comprehend. I am pondering the blessings in my life, with gratitude in my heart. I am offering up these words as praise to my Lord, who has bought me and blessed me beyond measure.

Mary Did You Know?

The song, "Mary Did You Know?," is another great Christmas song. There are so many important truths about Jesus that this song highlights. The song seems to ask the questions so many of us wish we could ask Mary. How much of Jesus' life and ministry was she able to comprehend? All we know for sure is what the Scriptures record for us. She knew that her son was the Son of God. She knew he would save God's people. She knew that many would turn to him, and many would turn against him. Beyond this we can only speculate. It leaves us to marvel at the young girl's faith and he willingness to honor her God through humble obedience. Here is a video of "Mary Did You Know?" as sung by Clay Aiken. Although I not a huge fan of his, he does a good job on this song. The video is also well done. I hope you enjoy.

O Holy Night

Another one of my favorite Christmas songs is "O Holy Night." This video combines Mercy Me's version with images from the movie The Nativity Story. I found this video, like the last two, on YouTube. I hope you enjoy it.

Beautiful Star of Bethlehem

Monticello's choir did an awesome job of singing "Beautiful Star of Bethlehem," during the our Christmas cantata.  Unfortunately, we had a technical glitch and were unable to record it.  It  is another one of my favorite Christmas songs (especially when it's sung with a country accent).  Since I don't have Monticello's version to share with you, I thought the Judds would be fair substitute.  Enjoy.