Watchnight

Tonight is New Year's Eve, the seventh Day of Christmas.

Tonight is marked by Watchnight.  Late night services for Christians to review the year that has passed and make confession, and then prepare for the year ahead through prayer and resolutions.  For many, this also carries a liberation component.  Being set free.  In remembrance of the African American congregants gathering December 31, 1862, expectantly waiting confirmation of the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863.

That all seems particularly appropriate to reflect on this season, as 2019 has been a year of milestones and great change.  Tenth anniversary.  Great trips to Disney World, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana.  My first cruise.  And also getting fired.  Jamie taking a hiatus from teaching.  Confession.  Putting a lot of stuff in storage and moving in with the Hamricks, while we wait on knowing where exactly we'll need to be.  Working temporary jobs in the interim.

It has been a marvelous time in seeing God's faithfulness, his provision, and his care.

It has also been a frustrating and challenging time in the waiting.  In the unknown.

And yet, it feels again like we are on the precipice of change once again.  That in this new year, direction may finally settle.  To see the potential for light at the end of the tunnel.

To look expectantly ahead.

If I've learned one thing through this year, it is that the Lord has a plan, the Lord will provide.  I pray not to lose sight of this in the future.  I don't see it happening in this coming year, but I pray it is not something I forget over time.

As we all start to prepare for countdowns, for closure, for change, for the ringing out of the old and in with the new, I pray you all have a safe and wonderful night.  I pray you have time to reflect on what you've been brought through, and to recognize if nothing else, how you survived.  To recognize those that have pulled you through or been right there beside you.

To those who have continued to read through this second year of posts, thank you.  It means more than you can imagine.

To all, have a great night!  May it be safe and blessed and may your transition into this new year, into the new bring everything.  Highs and lows, joy and tears.  But through it all, may it bring love, kindness, generosity, and grace.