It's New Year's Eve- a time of celebration, a time of endings and beginnings, a time for change; and, usually a time of positive intent. And then, life resumes on Jan. 2nd and slowly we often ease back into a familiar place. A place that is more reactive to our circumstances than proactive. Sometimes a place that seems more comfortable even when it is born out of pain and discomfort. The truth is that although change can represent hopefulness, relief even success, real change is hard to achieve. It takes commitment, practice, accountability and most importantly a renewed mindset. Without a change in mindset, a new perspective, the chances of real change is minimal.
So here we sit at a milemarker as another year passes. And in terms of our journey, the reality is that today does not really mark an ending but a continuation to the journey that God has granted us. It is, however, a perfect time for reflection. A time to reflect with a fresh perspective. As we take a honest look back over the past year, our perspective can change the way we look at the past with a positive impact to our future. Acknowledging our blessings yields gratitude, challenges provide insight, pain develops empathy and trial builds faith. It truly comes down to your perspective.
As I reflect personally, I am not only taking an accounting of the year but asking myself the following questions:
1. Do I truly know that God made me with unique gifts that can reflect his character in this broken world? Can I accept my value as a child of God?
2. Do I trust that he is lovingly at work in and through me no matter the circumstances? Can I accept that God is always in control?
3. Is my focus more on who God wants me to be within my circumstances versus just reacting to the circumstance? Can I see through my circumstance to the hand of God?
4. Lastly, are my eyes open to the needs of others no matter the sacrifice or inconvenience? Am I willing to follow the example that Jesus set by loving those whom he puts in my path. Am I loving my enemy and my neighbor as myself?
I know if I can work through these questions, then I have a mindset that brings a fresh perspective to my next steps entering this new year. A perspective that helps me be more present and intentional. I have begun transitioning seasons of life. And at a time when in many ways my opportunities feel like they are shrinking , I am hanging on to Matthew 19:26 "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible". I still have dreams. And, I know God's not done with me yet; just, as he's not done with you. So, I encourage you to ask some hard questions, build a fresh perspective, and know that this year holds a multitude of possibilities for all of us no matter the season of life! And, for my friends who have suffered great tragedy this year, I know that God is surrounding you and sending love through others. And, I pray that the peace that surpasses all understanding becomes real within your lives. And this year at a time when so much discord and brokenness exists, may we all look for ways to reflect the light of God through love and kindness. And, may we spread that love and kindness not only to those for whom it may come easy but for those who challenge us through our differences!
Below is a little prayer focused on being present and reflecting God's love. I wrote it on our trip to a Africa several years ago the night before we went into the villages. Seems appropriate to stepping into the unknown of a new year!
Happy New Year,
Sallie
Lord,
Today,
Give me hands to plant your garden.
Give me feet to walk the path you've laid.
Give me strength to join the suffering
Lord, give me love for those you died to save.
Give me eyes to "SEE" your children.
Give me ears to hear your call.
Give me words to touch the hurting.
Lord, may your Spirit heal us all.
Lord, Let my voice express your kindness.
Let my touch express your strength.
Let my laughter express your hope.
And Lord, may our hearts reflect your perfect love.
Amen.
