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"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" ~ 2 Cor. 9:15
The end of the year is always a reflective, pensive time. A time of looking backwards to celebrate the triumphs and challenges of the past twelve months and a time for looking forward to the unknown events of the new year.
I know that I have much for which to be thankful! God's indescribable gift of his son Jesus Christ calls for ongoing thankfulness every year of my life and this Christmas was a time to renew that spirit of thankfulness. More specifically to this year, I was blessed with the opportunity to return to school and begin a Master's program at the University of Toronto. In 2012, I will graduate with an MA in the area of History and Philosophy of Science. I've been challenged much by the program, but am thankful for the critical thinking skills being developed and the chance to delve into my passion - the history of chemistry. I'm fascinated by past chemists and their laboratories, their theories and their rivalries. At times, I've had to ask myself how these studies are furthering the kingdom of God, but then I am reminded that all things we do can be committed to the Lord and in him lies all wisdom. I believe that God has a purpose for me to study the history of science even though I can't see what it is leading to right now.
My health is also an ongoing topic of thankfulness. I've been blessed to have a doctor here in Toronto who is doing follow-up with me every four months to make sure I'm still in remission. So far, so good! Going through cancer treatments has taught me a lot about the priorities in life and that none of us are guaranteed any amount of time in our lives, except the time that God grants us each day. It has also given me a sense of empathy for those who are newly diagnosed with cancer - I hope that God will continue to show me how I can use my experiences of these past two years for his ultimate glory!
I realize that challenges can be a cause for thankfulness as well, for they drive us even closer to the Savior. We long to hide in the shadow of his wings and find new strength to tackle insurmountable difficulties. Moving to Toronto has not been easy for Sigi's job situation. He's been working so hard at volunteering during the past four months, but has now been given a substitute position with the Hamilton board starting in the new year. We are so thankful for this "in", as the teaching system is very closed these days to new teachers trying to find jobs. The move to Toronto was definitely a step of faith and faith is still needed as we wait for Sigi to employ more stable employment.
This New Year's I praise God for his faithfulness in these joys and challenges. My prayer is that this new year will be a time of growth in his Word and a heart that seeks after his will in all areas of my life!
2012-01-07 12:51 am (UTC)
I just wanted to let you know that I'm still following your blog and appreciated your "New Year's update"! I am so glad to hear your health is so good and that you're enjoying life in Toronto! Sorry to hear things have been tough for employment for Sigi, but glad to hear things are looking up! I admire you both for your display of faith and trusting God to take care of your needs! Keep it up!!
Hope you had a great Christmas and New Year's!
Love,
Hillary :)