It’s still New Year’s Day (for the next 21 minutes), so I still have time to declare a focal word or theme for 2024 that describes what’s on my mind as we dive in.
I had never chosen a word or theme for the year until 2023, but in December a year ago, one word was so obvious and prominent in my thoughts that I was bursting to claim it: EXPECTANCY.
The year leading up to 2023 had been one of colliding extremes–astonishing rewards from the least likely experiences: defeats, dead-ends, and stunningly dysfunctional situations. God had surprised me with crystal clarity throughout those challenges (a blessing he doesn’t always give), and those “victorious losses,” as I’ve come to consider them, had been game-changers. In short, the simultaneous highs and lows of 2022 blew my mind in the best ways.
So, heading into 2023, the word expectancy made perfect sense. And it did not disappoint. Once again, this past year was not one of obvious, straightforward victories. In fact, many who know some of my family’s recent developments might be surprised to hear me talk of victories. But the truth, without any glib veneer, is that Scott and I feel joyful in looking back over 2023 and recounting the ways the Lord has acted on our behalf. We recognize that joy is an unscripted, unexpected reaction, but it’s true. God has provided beyond our expectations:
• Wisdom about opportunities that we chose not to pursue
• Healing of my vocal cords without the slightest fanfare at Asbury, just because I asked
• Nearness and protection during two dicey situations
• Strength and motivation to work long and hard on a major project, even though the outcome wasn’t what I had hoped
• Superb opportunities for the boys (that also empty our nest too fast)
• Stamina and vision to stay engaged in some hard realities for important reasons
• Satisfaction and peace in having made wise decisions with resolute integrity during our most difficult professional trial, the encouragement of feeling the hands of friends on our backs, and the empowernent of grace to keep loving, forgiving, and standing our ground.
These provisions have been right on time, abundantly obvious, and fully sufficient. And we had fun in 2023, too. A swim with the sting-rays on a 30th anniversary trip with Scott. Delightful adventures for me across Europe with Pete, Sandra, and Evgeniya. The engagement of our youngest son, Jay, to precious Hannah. New lifestyle dynamics that (surprisingly) make us feel more free to enjoy and nurture friendships.
Yes, 2023 was a turbulent one, no question. Yes, there are still unanswered questions and pages to turn. But wow, what freedom! I have had renewed expectancy in the Lord this past year, and he has not disappointed me. I think this optimism is what he has been wanting to rebuild in me for quite some time. He is who he says he is, and he acts according to his good and faithful character. I can expect that!
So for 2024, I’m adding to expectancy a new theme: the Lion and the Lamb, which has long been one of my favorite images in Scripture to describe Jesus (who happens to specialize in victorious losses). This past season has spurred Scott and me into greater boldness. Sometimes principles need to be defended and values declared. But 2023 has also reminded us of the need for compassion and kindness. People are precious, and we’re all still in process. Holy boldness, perhaps a combination of lion and lamb, carries itself with courage and conviction, with willingness even to risk personal injury. It is both fierce and meek. It speaks up and steps up for the right reasons and in the right spirit. I’m sensing we need it.
As I expect great things of the Lord again in 2024, I pray he will help me to reflect the bold strength and sacrificial generosity of the Lion and the Lamb. His friendship is my greatest treasure, and I hope you will know his goodness in your life in a fresh way this year, too.
Happy New Year, all!
VIBRANCY 