Reflection

Isn’t it interesting that just turning that calendar one more page brings such a feeling of a do-over?  We measure our lives in these days and weeks and months, and as we look back at this year, we measure what we were able to accomplish – did we meet our goals, did we fall short of our expectations, did the plan come together?

I’m a list-maker.  I have lots of lists.  I really like lists.  There’s something about a list of “to-do’s” that makes me feel productive just in making the list!  I find comfort in the plan.  I have every intention of accomplishing all that’s on my list, even if it requires superhuman strength, which I’m sure will be readily available when I get to that thing on my list.

So normally the days before January 1 find me happily making my lists.  But not this year.

2013 was a very different year for me.  It began with one main thing on my list – get to know God. I was struggling in my professional life and I needed direction.  So my first decision was to give God more time.  Real time, not just an extra 5 minutes in the morning.  I made the decision to make Sundays a real day of rest.  Time for corporate worship with my local church and then time to rest my body and my mind.  Time to dig in His word and really learn.  I didn’t get it perfect, there were a few family events and interruptions, but I have spent more time than ever with Him and the rewards have been amazing.  My faith muscles are stronger than they were a year ago.  My direction is clear.  My joy is fuller than its been in a very long time.  My love for God is deeper than ever.

And as I’ve talked with Him about the year gone by, the only measurement for 2013 is:

Did I reflect Him?  Did I please Him?  Did I love Him?

Looking ahead to 2014, here’s my list:

• Reflect Him, let Him shine through me to others
• Walk in faith, it is what pleases Him
• Love Him with all my heart, with all my soul, with all my strength, and with all my mind

If I follow this list, everything else will fall into place.  And when I really do need that superhuman strength?  He’s on it!!!

Happy New Year!!