Well, here we are preparing to say goodbye to another year and hello to a new one. One of the most popular rituals observed during this time of transition from one year to the next is the development of new year's resolutions.
Typically we resolve to do things like lose weight, exercise more, eat healthier, and give up bad habits. And, typically, we gain weight, exercise sporadically, eat healthier on occasion, and hold on to our bad habits like dear old friends or Siamese twins.
This year, at the dawning of a new decade, let's drop the old way of preparing for the new--especially if it hasn't been working so well. You might, however, be better than the average person and are able to make resolutions and stick to them. But, either way, regardless of our previous failures or successes with resolutions, let's try to develop deeper goals that extend beyond an annual checklist.
Instead of resolving to quit smoking, resolve to discover and explore the broader issues behind the smoking-- for example, stress. Ask God to reveal the sources of stress and show His plan for overcoming them.
A single person might resolve to get married in the new year. Perhaps a better resolution would be to allow God to prepare one's heart, mind and finances for holy matrimony--which is a lifelong commitment--instead of focusing on a one-day ceremony.
Perhaps we have resolved to be more patient. In order to achieve that goal, we must first allow God to uncover the source of our impatience--fear, pride, control, etc.
God's Holy Spirit will always lead us and guide us into all truth. Perhaps this year, instead of a laundry list of lofty goals, why don't we simply ask God, "Show me the truth--of who I am and who I am not." Be prepared for what you will see. No matter how good we think we are, when we see ourselves as God sees us, it will not all be so pretty. The good news is that God still loves us just as we are, unconditionally, warts and all.
Even more good news is that, not only does the Holy Spirit lead us and guide us into all truth, the Holy Spirit is also our comforter and guide. So, once the light of God's truth reveals to us who we really are, we have a helper to walk alongside us and help us through the process of transformation into that which we were destined to be. We don't have to rely on our own strength. Praise the Lord!
Happy New You!
Rev. Karen
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