Join me as I link up with other writers for this month's journey as we come to the close of 2022.

Something Loved: I have loved being part of this community of "Share Four Somethings" for the past 2 years. Heather Gerwing hosted for 5 years and now is passing on the hosting duties to Jennifer Goodwin, who will continue the format in 2023. If you'd like to join us, feel free! 

I also loved that we had snow in TN surrounding Christmas and it was cold! Too cold for sure at -2 on Saturday morning, with a -22 wind chill, but it really felt like Christmas this year! 

Something Gleaned: I have been trying to slow down during Advent and taking my time with an Advent study by Annie F. Downs. It has been wonderful to discover Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love in a new way through her teaching and discussion with good friends online once a week.

We talked about this passage, Hebrews 12:2, and I was struck afresh that Jesus went to the Cross with joy.

"Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer, and perfecter of our faith. For the joy that lay before him, He endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." (CSB)

"We look away from the natural realm and we focus our attention and expectation onto Jesus who birthed faith within us and who leads us forward into faith’s perfection. His example is this: Because His heart was focused on the joy of knowing that you would be His, He endured the agony of the cross and conquered its humiliation, and now sits exalted at the right hand of the throne of God!" (The Passion Translation)

"Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection]. He, for the joy [of obtaining the prize] that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (Amplified Bible, Classic Edition)

How could he do that? Jesus died on the cross with joy because He was focused on His death would mean that I would be His forever. As I read through the different translations, I sensed God was telling me that I am His prize! I am so grateful.

Something (Braved) or Saved: I enjoyed this Christmas nail wrap set that I bought from The Flamingo Lady Nails. I had the picture saved on my phone. I think they look like Christmas sweaters. 

Something Achieved: I haven't been writing much lately, but I have finally achieved some peace in my surroundings by cleaning out my office. Of course, I had some motivation, because our daughters came home for Christmas and they needed a place to land.

Along with cleaning, I also managed to get a few Christmas decorations up on Christmas Eve day. I think they may need to stay around until Epiphany on January 6th this year. We need to appreciate them at least for a little while. 

Thanks for reading and Happy New Year! May God bless you as we begin 2023.