“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Psalm 139:14
Happy New Year! I pray that your Christmas break was filled with much joy as you celebrated the birth of our Savior.
As shared in my email Tuesday, this year, the Palkas experienced a very memorable Covid-Christmas break. Sadly, one positive exposure had the power to take all of us down in a matter of days. We are very fortunate that all of our symptoms were mild and quarantining was not very lonely when there were six of us in the same boat at the same time! In addition, hats off to Disney for their timely release of “Encanto”, which all of us can now recite by heart. However, for the times I was alone or could not sleep… I have never watched so much HGTV in all of my life!
I have always found these home renovations shows absolutely fascinating! I marvel at the skill set of the talented designers who can see the beauty and potential in tattered and worn houses as they transform them into stunning and welcoming homes. Often, various treasures are hidden by musty carpets or layers of wallpaper, and once these coverings are pealed away, magical charm reappears. Frequently, however, renovations detect structural problems such as rot, decay or leaks that require additional investigation to determine the root of the problem so that it can be properly resolved. But the most important facet the house is the foundation. Foundational issues will always generate significant problems for the entire structure.
Similarly, each of us is a precious “Fixer Upper” as the Lord sees such significant beauty and potential in each of us. Underneath the layers of sinful mistakes and poor choices, God still sees us as His precious children. Despite the depth of stubbornness, insecurity, and arrogance, God still sees value. And even with the occasional leaks of defiance and rebellion, God never gives up hope. The Creator loves and treasures His creations!
As we begin this New Year, may all of us continue to build our lives upon the firm foundation of Jesus, knowing that with Him, we can do all things through Him who gives us strength!
God has great plans waiting for us in 2022, and I look forward to experiencing these adventures with all of you!
In His Love,
Mrs. Palka