A fresh beginning..

Happy New Year! 2010...isn't that just strange to write? But I feel like this is going to be a good year.

I am ready for a new year and the great things it beholds. This new year will consist of volunteering for at least 7 months of it and continuing to learn, grow, and push myself out of my comfort zone. I am excited for what awaits and look forward to what God has in store.

Here is what I hope this year brings:

- vocational discernment as well as discernment on what my next step is (MVS sent me a packet to read through that has quotes, readings, etc. on vocational discernment so hopefully that will help in my journey)

- continued awareness about why I am here

-hope, peace, and love

-community living in the MVS house

-joy in the workplace and in my social life

- God's strength and peace in times of need

-quality friendships

I have been re-reading Elias Chacour's book: Blood Brothers (which if you haven't read it, I highly recommend it. I met him on my cross-cultural to the Middle East. He is such a peaceful person and has amazing insight into the conflict going on over there as well how to be Christ-like and hopeful in all areas of life.). His book has got me thinking again about that little region known as Israel and the West Bank. And I often find myself saddened by the things that he has written, remembering my time there and how it has already been two years since my travels. I hope that this new year will bring peace and well-being to those living in that region of our world. It is sad to think of the pain, hatred, and blood that has been shed in the land that our Father once walked and taught in. A quote from Blood Brothers (something to ponder):

"'But Father,' Rudah persisted, anxiously, 'Why do the soldiers carry guns?'

Slipping his arm around Rudah's shoulders, Father replied,

'For centuries our Jewish brothers have been exiles in foreign lands. They were hunted and tormented- even by Christians. They have lived in poverty and sadness. They have been made to fear, and sometimes when people are afraid, they feel they have to carry guns. Their souls are weak because they have lost peace within.' " (p. 42)

Lost peace within. What a sad concept...and yet it seems so true. Why else would such horrible things be happening in the "Holy" land if everyone had inner peace and love within them?

Blessings as we begin a New year and look forward to the future! May we rekindle inner peace and lean on God for strength and support.

Peace-

Lindsey