Take It To The Bank

The old Bob Hope television specials, they would always end with this song, "Thanks for the Memories", and that's how I want to end this year, with an Open Letter to 2017. 

Dear 2017

2017 you were an amazing year for me and my family.  You provided ups and downs, and tremendous memories that we can treasure for a lifetime.  All in all you were not only the most recent year of our lives, but one of the best.  So lets take a look back at a few highlights.

Shiloh National Cemetery

2017 you saw us visit places ranging from the flea markets of Central Arkansas to Callie's Hot Little Biscuits to the Gaylord Opryland Hotel and so much more.  Each stop along the way bringing joy and fulfillment to our lives in their own unique ways.

Centennial Bank Stadium

Jonesboro, AR

Just as our Red Wolves faced a daunting schedule on the football field we faced the challenges of a busy schedule from the multiple audits I and my co-workers faced to the burgeoning schedule of events for my daughter as a high schooler, to the frenzy of activity here at the holidays.  Each step of the way learning and growing as we must if we intend to thrive in God's abundance.

Yes 2017 you were awesome, one that will be hard for us to forget, not sure why we would want to.  You added to our memory bank, you strengthened our bonds, you built upon the successes of your peers of earlier years.  You made us a better family, gave us a stronger faith, enriched us in so many ways, you may be gone but you will not be forgotten.

Pineapple Fountain

Charleston, SC

The Bible tells us in James 4:14

"whereas you do not know

 what will happen tomorrow.

For what is life?

It is even a vapor

that appears for a little time

and then vanishes away."

With that thought firmly entrenched in our minds we need to live each moment recognizing that God is in control.  He will provide for our needs, and His abundance is more than we can even begin to imagine.  

Father-Daughter Banquet

Center Hill Church of Christ

Paragould, AR

While most will measure their wealth by the number and type of possessions they have, or how much money is in the bank.  Our true wealth is being stockpiled on the other side.

Do not lay up for yourselves

treasures on earth,

where moth and rust destroy

and where thieves break in and steal;

but lay up for yourselves

treasures in Heaven,

where neither 

moth nor rust destroys

and where thieves

do not break in and steal.

Matthew 6:19-20

We are given a glimpse of the treasures of Heaven in the relationships we build, the beauty of God's creation all around us, and the simple joys of His abundance shared with us each day.  

Tybee Island, GA

We can take you to the bank, 2017, our memory bank.  You have been a blessing rich in God's love and abundance.  Fair thee well in the annals of history.  Thank you for preparing us for our future.

The Angel Tree

near Charleston, SC

Now we begin to look forward to the appearance of your little brother 2018 and wonder what it will hold.  I am sure of one thing, and that alone.  If God provides it, then it must be good!  

It is with a heart filled with gratitude that this little family will begin the journey of a new year.  No we may not be wealthy at the bank, or in the stock market, but our needs are more than met, we have a firm foundation in God, and the health and well being to serve Him as we enjoy the journey.

Shiloh National Military Park & Cemetery

My encouragement to you, my readers is to take stock of the blessings in your life.  Recognize from where they have come, and build upon them to the glory of God.

Gaylord Opryland Hotel

Nashville, TN

This is how you will 

Make 2018 GREAT!