The Messenger

As the New Year begins, we instinctive look back at the year past and assess what we did, we didn’t do, what should have done, could have done, would have done … the list goes on. Then we resolve to do better in the year ahead. Sounds like the making of a typical New Year’s resolution.

Not only is it good to look back over the year past but from time to time it’s helpful to look back even farther. A new decade is a logical marker, so I began an assessment of my last ten years.

Wow, how some things have changed yet others have not! My little boys became young men. Looking back, I know I could have been a better husband, yet my wife still loves me despite my shortcomings. Young nieces and nephews have found spouses, married, moved away… one died. Wherever they go I will always remember them. Siblings have gotten older, I”VE GOTTEN OLDER! I may appear more like winter on the outside but I still feel Spring-like on the inside; so I am thankful for good health. The losses have been few and the gains have been abundant.

Three things become apparent; one, life really is short; two, we can’t change the past and three; with God’s help we can make a difference in someone else’s future if we just take the time. So I move into this next decade with great anticipation. I look forward to what the good Lord has in store because I know God will always be with me.

The change I sense most in the last 10 years is how my faith has grown. I take no credit for this but humbly thank my Creator for His grace and mercy.

When all is said and done, my one resolution is to be more thankful to God for all the blessings He’s given me. He has been my Shepherd. He provided green pastures, the likes I didn’t deserve. He led me to quiet waters when I needed them. Many times He restored my soul. When I was in the valley of the shadow of death… He comforted me. My cup overflows.

Do you think the idea of a New Year’s resolutions has some merit? If so and you feel the need for conversion in your life but aren’t sure what steps to take or what resolutions to make, I pray that your first resolution would be; to seek the One who has the answers to your questions. As Jesus said, “Come and See” what He has to offer?

Dear Lord, remind us to give You thanks at the coming in and the going out of each day and in all circumstances. Help us to respond appropriately to the situations we find ourselves in today. May our cup runneth over in 2010.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

– S.D.G.