It’s been a month since my last entry. December has flashed by, and 2023 has become a memory. Reflecting on a year spent writing and nurturing SLC, gratitude fills my heart. God has been undeniably present, yet notably serene.

For a stretch, I grappled with a creative block, largely tied to sluggish sales. As I geared up for 2024, the transition seemed to arrive too swiftly. Emotional ups and downs ensued. However, amidst quiet surrender, a realization struck me. Erin Loechner's words from 'Chasing Slow' resonated deeply:

“I used to think the opposite of control was chaos. But it’s not.
The opposite of control is surrender.”

Reflecting on this quote, God’s quiet voice whispered, “I believed in you before you knew Me because I created you.” Oh, how could I not learn to surrender rather than take control of every outcome? 

In a few weeks, God sent messengers who spoke directly to my heart. Gathered among strangers, their words carried divine love. I won't delve into specifics, these encounters fostered a profound sense of belonging. They reaffirmed God’s presence in my life; I am not navigating this journey alone.

In the final stretch of this year, identity and the company we keep have become my focal points. Such depth in connection wouldn’t have been feasible without our hearts being intertwined by God. I've learned that God delights in connecting His people, even those yet to know Him. I earnestly hope I’ve conveyed well enough: Jesus loves you deeply, even amid life's uncertainties.

As a Christian, I grew up believing that God chose me for His good purposes. However, it was in the in-between moments that I truly encountered His love for me. The purpose wasn’t something I miraculously adhered to. It was a process of refining and defining who I am in Christ. 

Now may I pray that your spirit awakens to recognize this immense love God has destined for you. He remains consistent—yesterday, today, and forever. Once you grasp this truth, everything falls into place, forming connections with the people you encounter.

Do you recall my encounter with Elaine back in April? Our initial interaction was a simple exchange at a coffee house—me buying coffee beans, and her sharing her passion for coffee. That brief encounter kindled warmth, prompting me to snap a photo outside the café. Surprisingly, she found and added me on Instagram. We met over coffee, and in her cozy art studio, our conversation meandered from a shy hello to a meaningful exchange that unfolded doors to new friendships and stories.

Some connections cannot be expressed in a single sitting. Deep within, I felt God moving in our hearts, His presence unmistakable.

Mapping the connections I made last year, I found remarkable commonalities that couldn’t be mere coincidences. God orchestrated each meeting so deliberately that when we seek, we find the dots aligning. Oh, how He cherishes us.

Now, what was I going to discuss?

In the realm of 'Slow Courage,' these are the words and themes God has placed on my heart as I craft 2024, envisioning the path for SLC. In these uncertain times, courage remains crucial in paving pathways for the future. Often, we mistakenly believe courage resembles bravery—a figure clad in armor charging into battle. Thankfully, God is different. He has conquered the toughest battle, and all we need to do is accept His victory.

Today, nothing comes entirely free; it often comes with conditions. The Grace of God epitomizes that salvation is free for all. While religion teaches us to earn before receiving, God did not intend for us to be perfect first before He accepts us. Regardless of our actions, as long as we accept the truth—

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

As the days unfold, let's not be immobilized by society’s narratives. Instead, I yearn for the complete truth: God loves us immensely, demonstrated by the selfless sacrifice of His Son, Jesus, for us, sinners still. If you’ve got time for Netflix, why not check out the TV series, The Chosen. I am certain that in this story you’ll supernaturally experience and get to know who Jesus is.

I don’t know who will be reading this or if it will resonate with you. However, my heart is brimming with hope for you because I’ve witnessed it. If you find time to peruse my previous blogs, I pray that you’ll uncover a word or phrase that nurtures the seeds within your heart. May your days ahead be filled with radiance, for the yoke of Christ is light and bright.

As we step into 2024, I firmly believe it won't be just another year; it will be one worth fighting for. It's a year where you'll embrace a powerful new identity as the bride of Christ. Trust in faith as small as a mustard seed will empower you to break free from the burdens of this world. My prayers continue, unceasing, that a life of intentional slowness and creative living becomes evident through your journey. The choices you make today are shaping you for the path to eternal joy. Remember, eternity isn't distant; it's here and now, on earth as it is in heaven.

Don’t overlook the obvious here, friends. With God, one day is as good as a thousand years, a thousand years as a day. God isn’t late with His promise as some measure lateness. He is restraining himself on account of you, holding back the End because He doesn’t want anyone lost. He’s giving everyone space and time to change. 2 Peter 3:8-9 MSG

From His Love and mine,
Crystal