A New Year
By Karen D’Amore
“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - - the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.”
Acts 20:24 (NIV)
Acts 20:24 (NIV)
It’s the first day of the new year. It’s the first blank page of my 365 page book, which I’m striving to have God see as good. Today lends itself to quiet reflection, where I recall the old to help route my course for the new. Like hitting the rewind button on a VCR, the old year rewinds, pauses, stops and replays. As I replay those archived moments, I’m reminded of Isaiah 55:8, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways, declares the Lord” (NIV). Though I’d prefer to fast forward or delete the muck and the mire, wisdom draws me to stop, explore and process the priceless lessons found hidden in the confusion, adversities and good.
The litany of dark, painful and confusing obstacles are challenging to comprehend. Though I would have preferred a smoother route, I recognize God allows difficulties for His express purpose. Recognizing and believing the truth doesn’t equate with liking it, nor does it make those difficulties any easier to endure. One thing I’ve learned in this Christian race is God is constantly working to mold, shape and conform us into His image...a process in which He is more concerned with our character than our comfort! Through hindsight-faith and the ability to reflect on God’s past faithfulness, I’m encouraged by His ability to redeemeverything for His good. Seeing beauty rise from the ashes in those incomprehensible circumstances has empowered my ability to trust God...even in the midst of pain.
As reflection draws me into deeper introspection, I see those hardships from an enlightened perspective. This life isn’t about me, it’s about Him! This Good News, heaven-bound race was intended to bring Him glory. These God-allowed hurdles build endurance, perseverance and mature faith. “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:15, NIV)
As I launch forth on this journey into a New Year, I resolve to surrender and submit to God’s ways and seek His best... whatever that may look like. And as one year rolls into another and for future years to come, I strive to live in such a way that I’ll hear God say, ”You fought the good fight, you finished the race and kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:8, NIV) ”Well, done good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23, NIV).
As we stand at the start line of a New Year, will you resolve to run the Good News race - - obstacles and all?
GOING DEEPER:
- Reflect...finish well!
FURTHER READING:
Married to Dan, Karen, a retired police officer, currently works as a Manicurist at Craig Berns Salon and a Foot Care Specialist at Shorehaven Senior Facility. She also serves on the Oakwood Women’s Ministry Special Events team.
