Happy New Year

Many of us start the new year with resolutions, lists of things we want to accomplish in the new year, new attitudes, etc. I do the same. I want to start the new year off as a new person - a better person! I want to do another Triathlon, lose these pesky 15 pounds, run another 1/2  marathon, be more patient with the kids, enjoy the little things more, etc.  But sometimes "life" just gets in the way of these new goals and lists.

Mike and I were just talking last night of how the daily tasks of life overcome us at times.  We go to bed at night and sometimes dread doing the same thing all over again the next day.  I have the privledge of not rushing off to a job outside of the home in the morning, but there are still plenty of things that need to get done each day.  I make my daily to do lists, run the kids here and there, dishes, meals, laundry, etc.  Whether you work outside of the home or stay home, you are still busy with all things that need to get done.

So how appropriate that when I read today's entry in a daily prayer book that I have that it read as follows:

I can do all things through him who strengthens me .....Philippians 4:13

Lord, I am overwhelmed with the whirl of activity around me.  Getting the children up and dressed, making breakfast, taking them to school, doing dishes, cleaning house, running errands, fielding phone calls, meeting appointments, retreiving the kids, supervising homework, delivering them to music lessons and sports practices, dealing with calamities.... how do I fit it all in?  I am buckling under the weight of each day, only to find that I must get up and start all over again the next.

Father, you are a God of peace and tranquility.  I long to find a time to sit down and talk to you.  Show me a quiet place in the midst of the frenzy, where I may commune with you, be refreshed, and know that through your strength, I can accomplish all that you have set our for me to do today.

I needed this reminder today and I am thankful that He sent it to me. A great way to start off the new year!