Thou crownest the year with thy goodness . . .

He certainly does! I have always appreciated that phrase from Psalm 65:11 when contemplating the beginning of a new year, but this year, it was a real blessing to look back and consider how the Lord crowned the past year, 2006, with His special, providential goodness. A Vision Forum e-newsletter sent just before the end of the year had a wonderful suggestion – chronicle the year just past so your family can always look back on the faithful providence of God.

Our daughters’ families (who compose the majority of our homechurch members) came to our home for New Year’s Eve, and we did just that. Each family sat at a different table with the questions in hand and went through them, talking over the significant events, travels, joys, and heartaches of the year. Dh and I finished early, since it is just we two, and what a blessing it was to hear families talking, remembering, excited about uncovering and recording memories.

Praises were offered by all of us for how the Lord spared Baby Samuel, born at home with respiratory problems, and then brought him home well and happy after 10 days in the hospital. How thankful we are to have his smiling little face around! And everyone added thanksgiving for the two other precious babies born to the family this year – Savannah and Emma Jane, who became grandbaby #21.

Of course, the Lord always reminds us of His loving care and comfort through the difficult times. Daughter M has written a touching testimony of God’s faithfulness through her miscarriage of Baby 6 in May. Some day soon, I will post it here, with her permission. How excited we were today when she called to tell us the sonogram of Baby 7 indicates that another little brother should make his appearance in May!

We finished a few minutes before midnight, and as we gathered to join hands and sing the Doxology as the new year came in, I couldn’t help but think of the passage in Psalm 78 that instructs us to make known to our children and their children His wonderful works, so that they might 1) set their hope in God, and 2) not forget His works, and 3) keep His commandments. What more can we wish for our children and grandchildren when we are gone on to Heaven? The Lord has laid this mission so strongly on our hearts for our remaining years on earth. If we will be faithful to relate His goodness, He will be sure they don't forget. Lord, help us to be faithful.