It’s my birthday this month! But when you reach your 60s, birthdays often become an event you would rather ignore. Allowing the day to come and go without the fanfare and celebrations of younger years.

I’ve talked with others reaching these milestone events and they agree, let them slip silently away.

But this year, I am approaching my birthday with a different attitude.

You see, the year leading to this celebration was a difficult journey of refinement. Gentle revelations from God that my thoughts and behavior harbored unrecognized, unconfessed disobedience and selfishness. I’ve been prideful and controlling, not wanting to listen to God’s prompting and ignoring His direction.

There were times, flat on my back, when God had my undivided attention, reminding me of His sovereignty, His mercy, and the amazing grace He offers unconditionally.

He literally rerouted my heart by His loving care.

So this year, the celebration will be introspective – no parties or trips of a lifetime. I need to take time to reflect on all that has happened these past 365 days. Because, I am gradually, daily recognizing God’s hand in the orchestration of my life.

I see it.

I feel it.

And it is a little overwhelming to experience the depth of our Savior’s love.

I am grateful for another year, for family and friends, and the gift of a future altering salvation that blows me away daily.

The year leading to this birthday was life-changing, filled with demands, and stretched me beyond my comfort. Yet, there was a sweetness that wove its way through the days.

It was a year of rebirth.

An amazing gift.

Colossians 3:10 tells us,

“Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.”

New Living Translation (NLT)

BeLOVED, each year is a precious gift that God hands us. As we unwrap each day, every minute, look for the learning; seek ways to grow closer to God. And, if the time includes the demanding, the life-changing, some uncomfortable stretching, be confident that the gift remains perfectly selected for you.

Be Blessed,