Hi there! I wanted to say hello and welcome to MOPs!
What an exciting and interesting year to be a part of this wonderful group!
Okay so, you know what!? Whether it's your first year in MOPs or you've been here before, you are a part of something NEW this year!
Yes, you are a part of something new, probably in many aspects of life right now, really, but anyhoo, MOPs has a new look to it this year, doesn't it? And I won't be the first to say, new can be scary and hard. But we're so glad that you're here trying out the year with us! We're going to make the best of it!
I imagine this year looking like MOPs did when it first began. Moms meeting in small groups with their kids in tow, making connections and sharing Jesus and life with each other. Now though we also have the option to meet online!
This year has gotten a makeover that seems to me and my human-self to need a makeover of its own. But again, I'm human and sometimes my perspective is flawed. Well, more than sometimes. Of course I don't like the bad things going on, but I can shift my perspective to the good God is doing during these strange and difficult times and how I can be a part of that good. Above all, 2020 is in the Lord's hands and there's no better place to be.
Mostly though, I think for some, 2020 has been a time of learning to live with open hands and hearts, realizing that things are out of human control, and hope that lasts being found in Jesus, the One who is our only hope. What can be better than that!?
I think about how I wish things were different, but at the same time, during these strange days I've still seen God working and His glory and grace being displayed all over the place. He's still here, He's still working, He's still seated on His throne. He will never leave us nor forsake us. God still provides peace that surpasses all understanding. There's still always something to be thankful for, something to bring a smile to our or someone else's face, something to bring joy into our days.
I'm praying today that in the midst of all the chaos surrounding us, we will chase the joy that may seem hard to find, but can also be right in front of us.
- Heidi M.
