Many Americans approach the New Year by making New Year’s resolutions. When Americans are asked what they are wanting to commit or change in the new year, their responses seem to revolve around these five resolutions:
1. Enjoy life to the fullest
2. Live a healthier lifestyle
3. Lose weight
4. Spend more time with family and friends
5. Save more, spend less
For many, the New Year is a time to reflect and think about what the past year has brought and what the New Year could bring. It is a time to stop and analyze, to take stock of our priorities, values, pursuits, and goals. We need to ask questions like, “Who am I, and what am I doing with my life?” As Christ-followers we can qualify that even more by asking, “What should I be doing as a Christian with my life and the resources and gifts that God has given me?” After all, according to the Bible, all of life is stewardship—a stewardship of our time, talents, and treasures. In other words, since God’s plan and our stewardship revolve around and through the life of His Son, Jesus Christ, we need to each ask, “How well am I responding to the Savior and the spiritual life that Jesus has given me?”
As you take a look back to dream about the way forward, let me offer two things to think about. First, be thankful for all of God’s blessings this past year. Be especially mindful of all the simple, ordinary and everyday things that often get overlooked. Secondly, commit to one or two service or giving action items. Gratitude is best expressed by response. So find a creative way to give back. So, as we live into 2024, I leave you with words by Christian artist Sarah Groves from her song entitled, “How Is It Between Us.”
When I wake up I am on my way, Reinventing the wheel and saving the day. I have learned this lesson a thousand times, I am the branch, and you are the vine. Apart from you we are mice and men, With our fancy dreams of grandeur and no way to get there. Oh I can think about you now and then, Or I can make a mark on eternity. Lord first of all, how is it, between you and me?
God’s Peace and Joy,
Jesse