 I was becoming a bit panicky when I had no word chosen for 2021 by Thanksgiving. Usually by then, a word presents itself. But not this time. It wasn't until things began to crumble, or at least take a different turn, that the word SURRENDER popped into my head. Plans, COVID-19, career, home, relationships, health, etc. Things I had little or no control of that forced me to open my hands and let them go to the mercy and will of God. Because of COVID-19, my plans to travel (which feed my inspiration) disintegrated. I couldn't write for weeks. And when I did, nothing grand came of it. SURRENDER! Our home, as lovely as it is, will soon need new appliances, repairs or a remodel. At our stage of life, it won't happen. Maybe it's time to move? SURRENDER! Two years ago, I could out-walk friends much younger than me. I used to get up early each day and walk two miles with a buddy. Now, osteoarthritis (a gift from my mother) has eaten the cartilage from both knees and is threatening to do the same in my wrists. In the Spring, I will need a bionic replacement for that right knee. SURRENDER! I could go on. . .  Isn't that a morbid outlook, you ask? Well, yes. And no. The 1828 American Dictionary of the English Language defines SURRENDER this way: “To yield; to give up; to resign in favor of another; as, to surrender a right or privilege; to surrender a place or an office.” SURRENDER has a sense of finality about it. A giving up. A letting go. But it‘s not as dire as you may think. If the one to whom you are yielding is wise, loving and has your best interests in mind, not to mention, has the power to make everything work together for good, it brings a sense of peace and CONTENTMENT (my word for 2020).  Who is that one? My Savior. friend and guide, Jesus Christ. I can trust Him with my life, my heart and my all. He is the door to peace and contentment.
6 Comments
1/20/2021 11:33:34 am
Jarm, I had to smile when I read that your word for the next year hadn't been picked by Thanksgiving! I can tell you're an amazing planner! My word for the year quietly chose me as the new year started: Faithful. So many things going crazy in the world and in our individual lives but I hear the call to be faithful even though. Thank you for sharing about surrender and what that has meant in your life recently. I hope your osteoarthritis doesn't prevent you completely from enjoying a walk when you want to go and I hope your surgery is wildly successful! 1/20/2021 11:26:24 pm
You are so sweet, Pearl! Being faithful in spite of everything is so important. Thanks for sharing your word with me. Praying you will continue to stand fast, no matter what comes your way this year.
Jeannie
1/25/2021 11:12:19 am
Absolutely beautiful, your words are a gift. 1/26/2021 09:41:58 pm
You continue to be an encouragement to me, Jeannie!! It would be a treat to give you a big hug and bises in person.🥰
Dewey Keyes
1/25/2021 01:12:44 pm
My word of the year for 2021 is “Thanks”, as in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; fo this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” We’re not admonished to give thanks for difficult experiences, such as COVID-19, but during those circumstances! It’s a big difference & I must remind myself of this difference daily. Right now I’m especially thankful for getting my 1st COVID-19 vaccine yesterday! I’ll get my 2nd dose on Valentines Day! Now I’m praying continually that me wife will soon be able to schedule her vaccinations! We’re both rejoicing that we & our family members have stayed healthy during this difficult time. Rejoicing always & praying continually are the next 2 verses from 1Thessalonians 5. I’m actually picking all 3 words for 2021& beyond: thanks, rejoice & pray. Best wishes to all for this year & beyond. 1/26/2021 09:44:02 pm
You have much to be thankful for, Dewey! So good to hear you and your wife are doing well. Happy New Year, and many blessings going forward. Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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