Saturday, January 3, 2009

Draw Me Close to You

I didn't realize that I was going to take a mid-Winter sabbatical from blogging, but it looks like I did anyway. Hopefully, the New Year will be a different story, or else even I am going to quit reading this dead- beat blog:).

Christmas was a blast this year. Park could not have had more fun if he tried and we were able to spend lots of time with each side of the family. We also managed to squeeze in some time at the lake, where many hours of intense board game action took place after the kiddos turned in for the night.

Looking back at 2008, I feel like the Lord has stretched me incredibly. There were so many blessings that the year held, but probably the most unexpected one was how He has chosen to refine me through longing.

If you follow this blog much, it is no secret that we have been desperately yearning for a second child this last year. At times I've even felt like it has been the very thorn in my flesh that Paul so eloquently describes.

Over the last year, I have had the opportunity to celebrate the pregnancies of my sister, my sister-in-law, Bridget, my neighbors on each side, and 6 other close friends. Sharing in their joy also increased my own longing. During this season of waiting, there have been points where my heart has felt very alone and forgotten, even though my head knows Jesus has been with me every step.

But, although the road He has had me walking this year has been heart wrenching at times, it is also the very thing that has driven me to believe His promises like I never have before. My longing has given me a new view of His supernatural peace, mercy, grace and perseverance.

It has drawn me closer to the very heart of who He is.

What the devil has meant to harm me, the Lord has used for my good.

And who am I to argue with that?

Too many times, though, my eyes get so focused on what I think He is "not giving me" that I miss what He IS giving me. In my life experience I have found that when God temporarily allows yearning in my life in one area, He is quick to bless me in another.

And that brings me to some exciting news....

Chris and I have experienced a unique, unexpected blessing. Our seven years of ministry together have been centered around high school students. We have seen God do amazing things in the lives of thousands of students and we have been in awe of where he has taken us throughout the journey.

And now, we have a new opportunity to expand our ministry even further. About a month ago our Sr. Pastor asked Chris to become the Campus Pastor for Fellowship Church's Fort Worth satellite campus. We are so excited for the opportunity and for all God has planned for the city of Fort Worth in 2009. If you live in the area, we would love to invite you to our Sunday services. You can find more information here.

As for my personal journey in 2009, I can't be sure what the future holds, but I am certain that the One who holds my future will continue to use my circumstances to draw me closer to the very heart of who He is.

And who am I to argue with that?

10 comments:

Heather said...

Glad to see you're back! I was wondering about you :) If it is any consolation whatsoever, I too have been walking the road of wanting another child. We've been trying to 1.5 years, and it is hard to wait patiently for God's timing.

KirkKrew said...

I've missed your blogging! What exciting news! We'll have to check out the FW campus!! Congrats!

Lori said...

That's exciting to hear!! I'm still praying for you about becoming pregnant. Each time we've been around y'alls house, your house has been all dark, so maybe we'll catch up with y'all soon. Oh yeah, welcome back!!

Tiffany said...

What a fantastic opportunity for your ministry. Praise the Lord. I have missed reading your blog. Glad to see you back. ~Blessings!

Ingram Gang said...

I had a dream about you a few nights ago and I think it was prophetic. We'll just leave it at that ;-) I will let you know what it was when the time is right.
And I loved your Christmas card as well. I actually got both of the cards you sent. The first one went to Brad's parents house and the second one came to us. Thanks for the 'double love.'
And Congrats to Chris on his job. How exciting!

Deidre said...

Glad to see an update from you, Brittani!

I can relate to all you've written here. I now have 2 beautiful daughters, but had to wait 4 years for each one. NOW I know how God was drawing me to himself during that long period and often times, I did think he had forgotten me. I don't begin to understand his timing, but know it's perfect.

I'm praying for you and your family and this exciting opportunity! Wow, God has big plans for you!!

Anonymous said...

yea!!! you're back. . . i'm so glad. i've been checking in frequently just so you know . . . you've been missed. what an exciting opportunity lies ahead for you and your family!! that's wonderful! also, i understand your longing for another child and i will pray for you.

Heather said...

So glad you're back and I relate to this post one million percent!!! Everything you said is so right and I am so thankful to have you as a fellow sojourner and bloggy friend!
I have been thinking about you this last week....b/c we have been in "No pacifier boot camp" since January 1st. I remembered you writing about Park still having his...and Connor did, too. But 2009 is the year of no paci for us! It's been rough but we are surviving...and I really think in just a couple of weeks things will be back to normal.
I'm praying for you and for God's blessing and timing with baby #2!

raenette said...

Britt, it is about time you start writing again, my friend!!!!! Congratulations to you and Chris. I know that God is going to bless you guys. As the Baby dept goes..you know I totally get it. I will continue to pray and please pray for me too still no baby blessing here either!

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