Today I am 55 years young! This is an especially meaningful birthday that I have dubbed my “Double Portion of Grace” year.
The number five in the Bible means grace. My name, Nancy, means grace. I am alive by God’s grace.
Earlier this week, I had the privilege of joining a group of nearly 50 women at a facilitator’s retreat in Lake Dallas, Texas. The Listen to My Life visual maps process was transforming for me several years ago when I was first introduced to it. The founders and leaders – fondly nicknamed “The Four” – of oneLifemaps held this second of what I hope will be many future retreats for facilitators whose hearts and creativity have been captured by this amazing life mapping process.
It was there in the space and time for a sacred retreat that God affirmed to me over and over His grace in my life. His grace truly is amazing.
The fact that I am so buoyant with joy and vitality these days after coming through the past long season of breast cancer and life transition does not make me feel I ‘deserve’ or have ‘earned’ any of this joy. It is purely proof that we serve a God who does not lie, whose promises are sure, and who grants us “joy in the morning” after the long, hard night.
My wish for this birthday, indeed, my entire “Double Portion of Grace” year is that many fall headlong into God’s wellspring of grace. If I have the privilege of helping push you over the edge, my heart will be filled up even more! His wellspring is one, inexhaustible vat of goodness and mercy. And Grace2!
How sweet the sound…the best birthday song I’ve ever heard,
Gracefully Free
For more information on “Listen to My Life”, visit OneLifeMaps.com.
I think my name means “grace” as well and I am grateful for the “space of grace” that God enters for His transforming work in our lives, as well as for the gift of YOU in friendship. Happy Birthday, Nanc.
Yes, you are a woman named “Grace” too, Anita! No wonder we’re soul friends 🙂 Thank you for the lovely birthday wishes, but best, your influence in my life. Thank YOU!
Happy Birthday Nancy,
I would like to hear more about this group of women and what you learned.
I think you found your purpose in this life. I in a Bible Study in Ephesians and this week’s focus is on that topic.
As usual, wonderful writing.
Happy birthday to you Nancy!! God is so good!!
happy birthday nance… God IS good…!! i have been following you since inception here, and just know prayers are always coming your way. so glad life is happy today… love you, miss you, and go have a blast today!! …paula
Yes, I have been a receipient of God’s grace through you! I didn’t know Nancy meant grace. Both my mom, Susan, and daughter, Annika, have names that mean full of grace. Grace, grace, grace–all over the place!