Christmas was only a few days ago, so I can still steal a lyric from a Christmas Carol as my blog title, right? I figure as long as my Christmas tree is still up, it’s ok. And I’m looking at the tree as I type, so…
All Is Calm This is a pretty strange feeling for me, honestly. After the chaos otherwise known as the month of December, things have slowed down a lot. I got to go home to my parents’ for a whole week, and it was the most restful week since…well…I can’t even remember a restful week, so it’s been a while. Even though I had to work 2.5 days, it didn’t feel like work. Probably because I spent most of that time sitting in a recliner in my pj’s with my laptop. I love working from home!
But it’s more than just being physically rested. For the first time in a while, my heart feels rested. That’s not to say that my life is stress-free at the moment, because it’s definitely not. But even so, I feel totally at peace. The pessimistic side of me is screaming to enjoy it while I can because it’s bound to go away soon, but I am choosing to ignore that voice. After all, peace is a fruit of the Spirit. It’s not determined by circumstance; it’s determined by God.
One pretty big circumstantial change that definitely plays into the feelings of peace and serenity is that I have stepped down from leading worship at IHOP. At this point, I’m thinking of it as a relatively permanent change, but other folks think I just need a break and will be back at some undetermined point in the future. And they could be right. I have no idea what the future holds, but…
All Is Bright I’m relatively optimistic at this point. I am excited about the 2009 with it’s new experiences, new challenges and new blessings. I’m currently in the midst of evaluating how I did with my 2008 goals and setting new ones for 2009. I can’t believe how fast this year has flown by. And supposedly it only gets faster as you get older, which totally blows my mind. I didn’t accomplish everything I wanted to this year, but I feel like I did pretty well for myself. I am happy with who I am and how I’ve grown in the last year. On the surface, it’s been a relatively uneventful year. Not much has changed externally or circumstantially. But internally things are different. And it’s a good different.
So here’s to a new year! Bring it on!
Filed under: Reflections
Whether the stepping down from IHOP is permanent or temporary is up to where God leads you, and it’s a comforting thought to know that He is leading.
I can’t believe how quick 2008 has gone either, wasn’t it just 2007 the other day? =P
Good words, Jen!!! From where I see it, you’ve accomplished much this year, because I can hear it in your words and see it in your actions. I dont know what those things are, but I know you’ve done it because I see the FRUIT!!!! Be blessed in 2009!!!
I’m glad to hear that you are feeling greater peace and that you experienced a lot of growth last year. That’s great!
I hope 2009 will be even greater! Stay encouraged!!!