“When presently the twelfth stroke of the clock shall have sounded, we stand again at the opening of a new year. For that year also God appoints the beginning. He plants it. His divine hand commits the germ of it to the life of the world. But likewise His is the knowledge of what the end of the year shall bring us. Whether for you, for one of your dear ones, it shall be the last year of life; or whether for you or for one whom your soul loveth, it will be the year of conversion and of coming into life; whether roses will be strewn upon your way, or thorns on the stalk shall smart and wound you. He knows all the trouble that this year shall burden your heart…. And therefore do not fear and neither be afraid, but now at the change of years, in childlike confidence grasp the faithful hand of that Father who is in heaven.”
— Abraham Kuyper (Keep Thy Solemn Feasts)
2013-01-01
A beautiful quote. 2009 marked the last year of my son Joshua. Each year brings its share of joy and pain. Hopefully the former outweighs the latter. With the Lord the pain is eased and the joy is augmented. Here’s to 2013.
Louis:
Our hearts go out to you and yours for the loss of Joshua. No doubt the holidays are difficult without those we love the most near to us. You’re so right that the Lord’s presence increases our comfort and joy knowing that someday we’ll be united with those we love for eternity. Meanwhile, you remain in our hearts through prayer.