Fittingly, today I finished the last chapter for what will be my book entitled (of course) “Wednesday Wisdom With Wyndham.” I did not feel particularly inspired to write this new chapter; in fact, the blank pages kept staring me in the face as if daring me to type. I have, however, learned that new chapters begin with only one word, that is then followed by another.

Today is a new year. A new decade. I miss my husband fiercely every day, but the pages of life continue to turn and it is up to me to begin writing new chapters. One word at a time. One day at a time. God may smile in agreement with what I write, or He may completely edit my work, as Jesus truly is the author and finisher of my faith. I must only step out on faith in Him, one word, one action, one thought at a time.

Today I plan to spend some extra time alone with God, recounting His love and His faithfulness in creation and to me.

All heaven will praise your great wonders, LORD; myriads of angels will praise you for your faithfulness.
For who in all of heaven can compare with the LORD? What mightiest angel is anything like the LORD?
The highest angelic powers stand in awe of God. He is far more awesome than all who surround his throne.
O LORD God of Heaven’s Armies! Where is there anyone as mighty as you, O LORD? You are entirely faithful.
You rule the oceans. You subdue their storm-tossed waves.
You crushed the great sea monster. You scattered your enemies with your mighty arm.
The heavens are yours, and the earth is yours; everything in the world is yours—you created it all.

Powerful is your arm! Strong is your hand! Your right hand is lifted high in glorious strength.
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne. Unfailing love and truth walk before you as attendants.
Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, LORD. (Ps 89:5-11, 13-15 NLT)

I will consider His workings (albeit often in mysterious ways different than I would have thought) and His companionship throughout this past year and decade. Though I would never want to repeat this exceedingly difficult year, through it all God remained near. Sometimes I felt despair such as David expressed in the Psalms, but as his songs continued to express, God encompassed me with a love and faithfulness that would not let me go.

Throughout Wyndham’s illness, I felt closeness and dependence on God that was precious and sacred, which I think comes through suffering. I am forever thankful and never want to lose that nearness (though I certainly wish it to remain without the same level of suffering). In the pain of loss, I am happy he never will suffer again.

How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.

They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights.
For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.
 Continue your love to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart.  (Ps 36:7-10)

I pray for your new year and your new chapters to be filled with faith and dreams for glorifying God. Those dreams are the fulfilling ones. God is eager to help us in these.

My friend Rhoda sent me a message this morning that resonated as I begin a new year and new decade.

Hello, welcome to Flight #2020. 

We are prepared to take off into the New Year.

Please make sure your Attitude and Blessings are secured and locked in an upright position.

 All self-destructive devices should be turned off at this time. All negativity, hurt, and discouragement should be put away.

 Should we lose altitude under pressure, during the flight, reach up and pull down a prayer. Prayers will automatically be activated by Faith. Once your Faith is activated you can assist other passengers.

 There will be no Baggage allowed on this flight. The Captain has cleared us for takeoff. (Author unknown)

May you have safe and faithful travels. Happy New Year.