Today marks the two year anniversary of our arrival to Ireland. In some ways it seems like we just got here, and in other ways it seems like we've lived here much longer. As we reflect over the past couple years its important to give thanks to God for all He has provided and done. I'm reminded of the passage in Isaiah 26:12 which reads, "All that we have accomplished You (God) have done for us." I love that as it points to the real reason for all that has taken place. Here's just several milestones of thanks that come to mind as we reflect a bit:
- Another year of completed school for the kids.
- Moving to Clontarf where there are boys on our road the same ages as our boys.
- The new Irish friends from our neighborhood, community, & school.
- The opportunities to show & share w/others the hope we've been given in Jesus.
- The arrival of our daughter, Kate.
- Seeing our family grow in closeness and faith.
- Seeing God do things in people's lives that we never thought imaginable.
- Experiencing the joy & seeing the fruit of living intentionally as a follower of Jesus.
This list is just the beginning, and I know it's pretty general. We could seriously take an hour or two just describing the details and background behind each item listed above. On this pilgrimage we have, and are continuing to learn so much about ourselves, our God, people, family, Ireland, church, the world, relationships, life, faith. Everyday is truly another step on the journey and with each step comes a new challenge, a new experience in this pilgrimage of faith and life. It hasn't, nor is it always easy or without pain, yet its progress, a pilgrim's progress.
Two years, and the pilgrimage continues...