In the fall of 2024, after my mother’s death followed by 14 months of at least one illness per month, I was asked if I had “a word” to set the tone for the next year. I laughed, because that’s not a tradition I’ve ever taken part in. But, to my surprise, the word “Jubilee” came out of my mouth

In the Bible, the Jubilee year happened once every 50 years. A priest sounds the shofar (rams’ horn) on Yom Kippur to mark its beginning: the forgiveness of debts, the freeing of slaves, and the return of land to its original owners. The Jubilee year served as a corrective to economic inequalities and a reminder of God’s ownership of the land. 

I began telling others I had chosen “Jubilee” as my word for 2025, praying to be set free from illness all the time. But as the New Year started, the idea faded. Isn’t that what New Year’s resolution always do?

Early this morning, God woke me with a thought that gave me the shivers and put a silly smile on my face. It is the middle of May, and I haven’t been sick yet in 2025. I am flying high in Jubilee Jubilation!! Praise God for His blessings. After an hour of thank yous, I went back to sleep and woke up smiling.

I’ve had to make some tough decisions on preventative cancer care this year. I’ve had to enter into a support role for others in tough times. I’ve been brought to tears (in front of people!) on multiple occasions, which is totally not my norm. But I have NOT experienced a virus, migraines, fevers, bronchitis, a cold, or any other nagging illnesses. My faulty immune system has done its job for five months!

This is a reminder of God’s ownership of my life. This blog is an “Ebenezer Stone” that I am erecting to celebrate this occasion. And a reminder, so when someone asks me what it’s all about, I will tell them of God’s goodness.

Today I’m celebrating Jubilee Jubilation. God has given me restoration. I feel good. I accept this gift with open arms for as long as it is given me. Thank you, God, for hearing and answering my prayer.