Last year, we placed mums and pumpkins on our front step and on the patio as usual. And then we had a year that was anything BUT usual.
One year ago yesterday, Ron had the surgery that was the beginning of a season of difficulty, discouragement, challenge, and change. It was also a season of mercy and grace and refining.
Now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.
As we reflect, we can only be grateful. Indeed we are grateful that Ron recovered. We are grateful for our new home, one that meets our needs at this stage of life. But we are most grateful that we have learned to trust Him more, we have learned to lean on Him more, and we have learned to love Him more! (And if Ron had not recovered and if our house had not sold and if we had not found a home that we love, we would trust that His plan for us is good. Because He is always good to His children. Romans 8:28.)
On Saturday, I revisited this photo that Kati took back in 2012. (Facebook users may be familiar with "On This Day" in which you can view everything that you've posted on the current date -- in this case, September 24th -- though the years.)
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| September 24, 2012 Bekah (11), Maddie (8), Gavin (9), Owen (6), Ben (3), Alaine (2) |
My sister suggested that we "recreate," so we did!
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| September 24, 2016 Bekah (15), Maddie (12), Gavin (13), Owen (10), Ben (7), Alaine (6) |
It was fun to look back at these cutie pies...and just as fun to see them today!
Then Kati took a bonus shot with the kids lined up according to their heights today...and with the sweetest little addition!
I love seeing those comparison photos! Bet that Gavin does, too. 🙂
ReplyDeleteYour faith-filled posts inspired me through your fiery trial last autumn and into the new year. I am so glad that Ron is still here! God's plan. Amen!
the sweetness of God's faithfulness in all seasons of life is so very evident.. precious family. precious Lord.
ReplyDeleteGod is good, He loves us dearly and He showers us with blessings amid lessons of trusting in Him.
ReplyDeleteI love those photos of the kids.
Have a great week ~ FlowerLady
:)
ReplyDeleteYes, God is faithful!
I love the photo of the children, Cheryl. Isn't it amazing how fast they grow?
ReplyDeleteYour precious thoughts are so encouraging to all of us that read your posts. Thank you, dear Cheryl. ♥
It has been a privilege to share in your life through blogging over this past year. Through it all, your testimony of faith and trust shone through brightly. May God continue to bless and use you and your honor of Him. Great photo comparison!
ReplyDeleteOh I loved seeing these comparisons...time goes by soo swiftly, and changes sometimes soo much. It was a difficult year for you no doubt, and yet seeing how God worked it all for your good, and for your growth, was truly inspiring for all of us. I LOVED how you share it all with us, and bring God glory in the process!
ReplyDeleteI love the stair step photos - both sets!!
ReplyDeleteYes, God is good.....all the time....no matter what....
I am so happy and thankful that you are all doing so well....
Your shining faith is such a blessing and encouragement, friend. It is a reminder to me today, that I can trust God's plan for my life.
ReplyDeleteI love the photo of the kids. So fun!
God is certainly good...ALL the time, regardless what trials come our way. Yes, you have certainly had an eventful year! I love the re enactment photos. They have certainly grown! Reading your posts always bless my heart :)
ReplyDeletenevertheless .......... He is always good. ♥
ReplyDeleteWow...a year already. It really is good to look back to see all that God has done. Love the lineup and that sweet little addition! What fun. We're still in Amish country heading home on Saturday...
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