EXAMINING YOUR RESOLUTIONS

New Years’ Resolutions are almost as customary as New Year’s celebrations.  Many people approach celebrations with an anticipated display of excess in a usually feeble attempt to rid themselves of things that are burdensome.  It is not uncommon to hear people say ‘New Year’s Eve will be the last time I ______because I want to have a fresh start in the new year.’   However, these resolutions are typically abandoned and usually forgotten almost as quickly as they are declared.  Can you remember your New Year’s resolution for this year?  Are you still abiding by the promise that you made to change?

While resolutions can be difficult to maintain, they often reveal a desire or an acknowledgement for something different.  Weight loss, abstinence, financial discipline, fidelity, honesty and patience are often among the list of resolutions.  These areas deserve closer evaluation before selecting them as a target for change and they should require careful consideration before abandoning these goals.  

In a few weeks, the season of Lent will begin.  One of the benefits of Lent is the invitation to a period of sustained focus to examine your relationship with God.  It is a time of spiritual reflection and renewal.  Before completely giving up on your resolution(s), spend some time carefully considering the thing you wish to change and examine your desires through the lens of faith.   Perhaps your resolution can be one of your areas of focus for Lent.  Try to avoid a hasty choice, prayerfully reflect upon your journey with Christ and the ways you seek to change.

Over the next few Sundays, we will continue to explore the way God has spoken and calls the prophets.  Plan to participate in worship and plan to invite someone to join you.  

In Christ,

Jon McCoy