As I was talking to my daughter on the webcam, we were interrupted when she heard a noise upstairs. Heather asked her daughter Elli to check on 2 year old Quinn. “What did she say?” I asked as I heard Elli’s voice, but couldn’t make out what she said. “She said that Quinn just climbed into the bathtub.” “Oh,” I responded. Then she added, “With his pajamas on!” As the bath was draining, apparently the temptation to go in and play with his bath toys again was too much to resist. Quinn really didn’t care if he was clothed or not. He impulsively climbed in. Our webcam call terminated and Heather went upstairs to a very wet little boy. It was time for a change of pjs.

A new year is also a time for change. We set goals, make resolutions, establish priorities and often change direction. Sometimes we do those things with thought, consideration and prayer. Sometimes it is under the influence of others persuading us to engage in an activity or join a group, so we say “yes” or “no” without thinking. Sometimes we just impulsively jump in, clothes and all, and fail to assess the value, commitment or cost, or if it is in God’s script for us.

I am about to relocate. Many women tell me that I will have another ministry where I am going. My response is simple. “I am not jumping in.” No, as I look at the future, my first steps are to rest (read December’s thoughts) and pray, then assess and act when it appears to be God’s script for me. I hope that I won’t respond to what looks good or is enticing.

Are you making plans for the New Year? Is God in the center of them as you set your goals? I have been meditating on Psalm 25—that God would show me, teach me and guide me in my choices and goals. Under the umbrella of His unfailing love for me, I don’t want to jump in and get wet for some momentary enjoyment, but pause, listen and see, so that I can walk where He leads. Actually, I think when it appears, His path will be too much to resist. Happy New Year!

Reflection: Read Psalm 25 and see what it offers you as you consider your new year.

Irresistible Salad

If one of your goals for the New Year is hospitality, your guests will find this salad irresistible.

Cook ¼ cup sliced almonds and 1 tsp. sugar over low heat. Stir constantly until sugar is melted and almonds are coated. Set aside.

Dressing:

½ tsp. salt

Dash pepper

2 Tbsp. sugar

2 Tbsp. vinegar

¼ cup oil

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

Drain 1can mandarin oranges. Slice two kiwis and 1 cup strawberries.

Combine mixed salad greens with dressing; add fruit and toss. Sprinkle almonds over top and toss lightly.

Recalculating, continued