Whoa, that cold air really woke me up! Not in a bad way, but it is still a shock to this aging body. I love the smell and feeling of cold air, even though it burns a bit when I take a deep breath. But I’m awake now and I, like many people, see today as a time of fresh starts and hope. God, it’s so cool that there is a day of beginnings! Even though I have not been real good at resolutions in the past, I’ve always thought they were a good thing. I always seem to ask myself: “What is there that I haven’t done, that I would like to do this year?” or “How can I live my life differently this year than I have in the past?” or the one that never seems to go away: “Will I be able to stay on a diet and lose some weight this year?”
Every time I made a goal, the reality that the future is only 48 hours away seemed to create stress – I needed to take action. There seemed to be a sense of urgency to get something done or the goal would never be achieved. I never really “got” Psalms 46:10a “Be still and know that I am God . . .” and what could be accomplished with His favor, help and willingness to “fight for me.” I simply relied on my own drives because they had afforded me some success. I was cursed with the “Martha Syndrome” for years, until I observed my wife and the way she invested in you, our children. I discovered that it was ok that everything was not in its place, or the dishes weren’t done because she was reading to you, playing a game or watching the Disney Channel with you. Slowly over the years I saw the results of her investment as you brought your problems and life challenges home rather than seeking advice from your peers. The quantity time was really more important than just quality time. It was then that the memories were created, not just a trip to Disney or the Caribbean.
Kids, I share my shortcomings with you because whatever your goal might be for this year or any aspect of your life, KNOW that God will help you achieve the desires of your heart IF they are good for you. Think about what it says in Proverbs 16:9 – In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. and Proverbs 19:21 Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails. These verses reinforce that no matter what you THINK you need, God will focus your desires and energies to insure they are a part of His plan. When that happens you will be strategically right where He wanted/needed you with the talents he blessed you with.
One more thought and I will close. In Isaiah 48:17 our Father says this to us: “I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what, is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.” God is active in your life. You are not going to sneak under his radar. This year is not just yours; He is sharing it with you. He loves you enough to let you have some of the desires you may not really need. He does that so you will experience the challenges presented by those possessions. Some of those desires will bring about tough and painful life lessons. However, they are good, because no matter what choices you make, he will step in and add the “twist” necessary to bring meaning to your life and make you better because of the choice. I wish I could have loved you with that much forethought.
Love Dad.