Into the Fire

[Better late than never . . . YAY! Internet problems fixed!]

Each New Year’s Day is a gift. We wake up on January 1st and we have God to thank for it. Many of you are at the age where that makes little sense to contemplate or seems somewhat insignificant in your thoughts. You’re young and strong, ready to tackle the challenges ahead. In the big picture, you’re limited in understanding by your years of experience even if you’re a visionary—it’s not your fault, we all must continue to grow up into what we don’t yet know. Whether you’re hopeful or hopeless, some days rise up against your faith and shout down your contentment.

Some of you make resolutions, others one-up that by making commitments. Some ignore the process of professing promises they can’t keep.

My number one desire is to hear the Lord more clearly, and subsequently to follow more fully, to love more deeply, and to pray without ceasing. Truly. When I accomplish those things, nothing this world throws my way will overcome me. I will be staunchly supported by Truth. Unshakable. Though I might waver like a tall evergreen in high winds, I will not fall. Nor will I be cut down.

The year of 2008 made clear to me—at least clearer than ever before—I cannot do, accomplish, breathe, exist, etcetera, apart from God. He ordains my life, sustaining it for His purposes. What a privilege. At the heart of that revelation is profound worth: a worth no human can provide for me, no amount of achievement can proclaim for me, no profession can promote for me. All because of God. Because Jesus came to die. Because by the Power of the Spirit He rose again. Top that.

So, as the year of 2009 revs up, I will handle my regret concerning the January 20th inauguration. I will turn to my Lord and plead for His mercy upon this country. I will remind myself that He is on the throne, not the new president. My disappointment and, at times quite honestly, my fears will be submitted to the only One who can deal with those in “power”. And I will be thankful because He is the King of the universe.

Looking forward with joy or trepidation, as most other things in life: it is our choice. And both involve our faith in the One who truly gives us life and liberty. I have no predictions for you or me. I know one thing: Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He sustains my life and apart from Him, I can do nothing. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.