My Word for 2011

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Dear blog, I’ve missed you. This is the end-of-December post I said I might write.

Ahh… a new year. The blank squares of 2011 are lined up expectantly, waiting for me to fill them with the New and Improved Me. She’s the one who has a quiet time every morning, exercises every afternoon, has a clean and organized home, and is an exemplary wife and mother.

But lately the Same Old Me has been arrested by the thought that my resolution-making seems more about taking control of my life than conforming my character to the image of Christ.

I love what Ann’s community is doing: each member selecting a word she hopes will characterize 2011 for her – naming the year. For Ann, it’s here. Other words I’ve read are simplify, worship, and joy.

For the past few days I’ve been pondering my choice of a word. And what I’ve thought about most is the way I’ve neglected the Word of God and prayer lately. My lack of discipline has resulted in weeds taking root, choking my fruitfulness.

So I’ve known 2011 must be different, because I can’t abide in Christ if I’m not sitting at His feet, taking in His words and offering back my own.

As I wrote this entry, still thinking about my word choice, I was reminded of Mary and Martha again. Martha was distracted with serving, while I’m distracted by leisure, entertainment, and the sticky world wide Web. But Mary chose something better than either service or leisure – the good portion: sitting at Jesus’ feet, listening to Him.

May 2011 be The Year of Listening for me. May I sit at His feet, soaking in His words. May I learn to have a quiet spirit. I see nowhere else to go. He has the words of eternal life.

Taking a Break for December!

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* Hope Road is on vacation for the month of December. *

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May you all have a merry and Christ-exalting Christmas!

See you, Lord willing, in 2011!