Birthday Musings

Oh what a year it’s been. Here I am smiling on my birthday last year, with no idea what 34/2020 would bring!

Yesterday on a pre-birthday outing, I visited a winery with a dear friend. I have always enjoyed wineries, but this time the spiritual symbolism was jumping out at me.

The vines and branches.

The pruning process.

The grapes and the wine-making.

The aging.

It’s been a year of crushing, to a degree, for all of us. For me, I’ve been pushed to the brink with physical pain from an injury that sent me to a surgeon. Have persevered through physical therapy, trusting that the daily imperceptible changes add up to full healing. (And praise God, they have!!!)

Through it all, the pruning has been hard. And yet, I know it is for my good—and for God’s glory. That I may bear much fruit for him.

Through this, I have also been learning the value, rather the necessity, of dependence. My family has always been a rock to me. With COVID, my injury, and other challenges, 2020 has showed me, more than ever, how much we need each other.

My parents are especially my heroes! Godly, loving, supportive parents are an incredible blessing and I am eternally grateful for mine!

An abundant grape vine requires care and pruning by a master gardener. Likewise a fine wine does not become so on its own. It is a process—many people play a role.

As I hit 35—an age between two decades—I hope and pray that the work the Lord does in me always points to him. He is in control and his loving-kindness never ends.

As a new year unfolds for me, I pray that his love also flows forth!

Thank you, dear readers, for following along this year! It’s been a joy to spend more time on this blog over the past year.

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