In December, many of us celebrate the holidays by spending time with loved ones and gift giving. This is also the time of year that traditions reign in homes across the globe. I started a tradition with my family several years ago where we pick out an ornament that speaks to us for the year. Often times it is a symbol of something significant for us. In 2020 my ornament was a Santa with a mask due to the COVID-19 pandemic that shook us up. I usually write the year on the back of the ornament so I remember when we chose it and why.

This year my ornament of choice was a compass. I found myself a little lost at the start of the year after being laid off from a job I enjoyed. I wasn’t sure how to spend my time. I was also uncertain about what I should do next. After fasting and praying, I decided to allow God to be my guide or compass. All year I made sure I was aligned with where God wanted me to be. Most of the time I didn’t feel like I was on track so I continuously checked in with God to make sure. He’d remind me of His promises and I’d take a deep breath and keep pushing.

At the start of the year, when I felt rejected and lost, God let me know that all of this was in His plan. For years I’d been hyper independent and in survival mode. I’ve always been a believer but was never in a position where I had no choice but to put it all in His hands until this year. At first this felt very scary. As the year progressed, I depended more and more on God and trusted the direction He was taking me in.

Now as we get closer to the year’s end, I am appreciative of the endings and beginnings that I’ve experienced. More than ever, I am grateful that God has been my compass all year long.

Isaiah 43:19