The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning. Lamentations 3:22-23

This new year has me in a reflective mood. I know that I am incredibly thankful for these words from Lamentations and the promise our Lord fulfills in them. Each year that passes I learn more and more of what it means to depend upon God’s mercy. So often God’s mercy helps me learn from past mistakes and each year I recognize how much I need God’s great mercy in life’s challenges each and every day.

My baby brother, Paul, turns 52 today. He is what I often call my ten-year younger twin. We look a LOT alike, but he and my son, Matt, are even more similar! While Paul has great responsibility as an ocean-going tug boat captain, he has an infectious joy in his life which I often envy. He smiles quickly and easily; and laughs with a twinkle in his eyes.

One of my resolutions for this year is to seek more JOY in every day. I find I can be far too serious and often go deep into an introvert’s thoughtful escape. Yes, I am an introvert! So, I am asking you to hold me accountable for living a life of JOY in Jesus. After all, with mercies fresh each day and the love of God, family, and friends in my life, I should be smiling all day!

Peace, Love, and Mercy,

Cliff

CHURCH NEWS:

·        Church Leader Training is at 5:30 tonight in Ratcliff Hall

·        Band of Brothers, Saturday at 8am, CJ Cannons restaurant

·        Blood Drive this Sunday.