“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. It was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness.”

The opening line from A Tale of Two Cities describes 2020 pretty well. Some may argue that there is no “best of times” about it, but I have seen it bring families together in a way that nothing else could. The saying is that trials will either make us bitter or better. I hope that the chaos of this year makes us better as we learn to rely on the Lord as some may never have had to do so before. I hope our children will look back at this time knowing that things were different and maybe a bit stressful at times but that they had more of Mom and Dad’s time, which allowed them to build some great memories.

I have dubbed this the year of uncertainty because it seems as though nothing is certain this year, not even taxes! For someone who likes to plan and know what I will be doing the next few months, this has been unsettling, but through it all, God’s grace is still sufficient.

When I began to think of writing on this topic, it felt odd to do it now instead of waiting until the end of the year. However, I felt like I should remind you all that the year is already halfway over! We are making it! I don’t know what the future holds and, like some of you, I’m concerned. So far, God is helping me to trust Him as I realize very little is in my control right now, but I’m looking to Him to move mountains and preserve our freedom. I want my nieces and nephews to grow up in a country that is safe and clean but that doesn’t live in fear. I’m praying against a financial depression that seems inevitable, but God is able. Mostly, I ask that God will continue to draw His people closer to Him, that we will not cease to love and encourage each other. And for those of you who have been able to keep working throughout this epidemic, I hope you won’t forget those who have been out of work for months and who may not be returning anytime soon. Your favorite gospel artists would appreciate your prayers. And if you are able, bless them with a donation and/or a note of encouragement.

Let’s turn these “worst of times” into the “best of times,” and may we cry out to the Lord for wisdom, grace, and patience to navigate the remainder of this year. God bless you all!