A TRANSFORMING RESOLUTION FOR 2021

 

          The year is about to end, and we all say, good riddance to a bad year. Of course, we know that our current problems will not go away just by turning a page on the calendar. But as we turn the page, we can hope for a much better year in 2021. However, for that hope to be more than just wishful thinking there are things we need to do beyond the usual precautions of wearing a mask, washing our hands, and so on. We can do something that is equally or even more important.

 

            We can make a New Year’s Resolution that will help us navigate whatever dangerous waters lay ahead. We can resolve to live the words of Philippians 4:4-8. We can take these inspired words from Paul, who seemed to always be in trouble, and do like the ancient Israelites did with the divine words God gave them. They were told to bind them between their eyes and on their wrists, and to write them on their doorposts where they would see them every day. God’s words were meant to permeate their lives.

             Here is what Philippians 4:4-8 says: Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is near; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, . . . whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

             These are words to live by in 2021. Let me summarize:

             First, rejoice in the Lord always. This is not a suggestion; it is a command; we can choose to rejoice.

            Second, be reasonable with everyone, especially those who disagree with you.

            Third, replace anxiety with prayer – in everything and with thanksgiving.

            Finally, focus on what is true, honorable, and just; on what is pure, lovely, and commendable Do your best to counter the stories of ugliness and violence by focusing on what is good and praiseworthy.

             Paul wanted to imitate Christ and I am sure that these words reflect what he saw in Christ. Today, as we view Christ through the lens of the Lord’s Supper, let us resolve to live by these words and thereby imitate Christ.

 Confession of Faith

 Prayer: O Lord, hear us and rescue us. Give us in the new year, we pray, renewed health in body, mind, and spirit. Help us to live by the example of your Son, Jesus the Savior, in whose name we pray.