“Be strong and courageous. Have no fear because it is the Lord your God who goes with you, he will not fail you or forsake you.”  Deuteronomy 31:6      

A dear friend reminded me of this verse from our Bethel Women’s Retreat a few years ago.  It helps me to try to be Strong and Courageous.

Ash Wednesday we begin our journey of Lent. I was born on Ash Wednesday many years ago and this year Ash Wednesday is my 79^th birthday. This birthday is a gift to me and I thank God and all our Bethel family who say prayers for me.  It has been a long journey and you’ve had to pray often……and I THANK YOU WITH MY WHOLE HEART.  It worked!  God is with me. I know he didn’t do it alone….at least I don’t think so.  I thank my medical team at the University of Minnesota, my family and friends, and my husband’s love and support.  Will my health continue to get better?  I hope and pray that it does…and I am thankful for this birthday and all your prayers, your hugs and support.

I know many ask how I keep my positive attitude through this journey.  I’ve learned a lot about myself during these last 2 years.  I want to try to live each day in the moment and thank my Lord each morning.  The old saying “time flies” is so true and  we must try to live each day to the fullest.  Again, it is knowing the Lord my God is with me, and the support you, my friends, give me, that keep my positive spirit.

Proverbs: 17:22 - A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a downcast spirit saps a person’s strength.

Prayer: Dear Lord, the fact that others care, even those that don’t know me, strengthens my spirit each day.  Lord may I continue to feel your love and show compassion to all I meet in your name. Psalm:136:26 “Give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever.” Amen.

Jackie Hugdahl