"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage. Do not be afraid; nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9 NKJV
As my inbox reminded me this morning, it's been over two weeks since my last article. I've been struggling a bit with what to write. Chrsitmas came and went with alarming speed, and suddenly we're in the new year and headed pell mell into the unknown. With all the news of fiscal cliffs and daunting reports of violence in the world, I found I was skidding my feet along the path, resisting the move away from the peace and joy of the manger scene.
But alas, here we stand in yet another year gazing at the horizon of a new journey.
As I prepare to put away the decorations from Christmas and make new years resolutions, the question always arises: "What are you going to do about Jesus?"
You see, for most people, Jesus is easier to approach in the manger. The innocence and purity of a new born child is less challenging than the man who walked in constant obedience to God the Father. As a man, Jesus reminds us of our humanity and our inability to walk in perfect compliance and obedience. His presence is a continual reminder of our need for Him as Savior. In our world that is hell bent on doing our own thing in our own might, His presence is uncomfortable. Light shining into the darkness is always difficult to bear for those who have been in the dark for a long time.
But the light is now shining on yet another new year. At the beginning of each year, I am challenged in how I am going to respond to the coming season of life. Each year offers me an opportunity to reflect on the previous year and adjust attitudes and actions that weren't beneficial. Although I don't make a list of new year's resolutions, I do resolve every year to be more dedicated in studying the Bible and living according to what it says. In it, the man Jesus, tells me I am to go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that He has commanded. (Matthew 28:19,20)
It's a tall order and quite honestly, somewhat intimidating.
When I try to keep my small candle of light shining in the hurricane force winds of the doctrine of the world, I am sometimes temporarily paralyzed by the storm.
But then the still small voice of the Savior reminds me, I am not alone.
"Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20)
And so, I confidently answer to the question of what I am going to do with Jesus.
In joyous confidence, I lean into His embrace and follow His lead, wherever He should choose to take me. I can rest in the knowledge He is always with me and will safely see me through whatever may come my way.
My prayer is all of you will rest in the knowledge of His love and care as well.
Have a blessed and Happy New Year and an exciting journey in the year 2013.
Comments