Bring it on
January 3, 2011 (Monday)
“Back to business” is the slogan around the world today as we put the festivities of Christmas and the New Year behind us. I suppose the total change of pace the holidays bring is a good thing, and for those in winter climes, a welcome diversion from the snow, ice and cold wind. Here in Rockport, December weather has been delightful while parts of Florida have seen the coldest December on record.
For the next few weeks, many people will focus on the NFL playoffs, and finally, the Superbowl in February. January usually brings the coldest weather of the year, too. In this part of the world, however, often we have beautiful weather this time of year. But it’s a “grab bag” affair. We never know for sure. In some years, Florida basks on beaches while we freeze. As Forrest Gump said, “You never know what you’re gonna get.”
Thinking about the new year a little more seriously, we need to remind ourselves that God says in His Word, “Fear not. I’ll be with you. I will help you” (Isaiah 41:10 paraphrased). Remember, “Emmanuel” was one of His names in the Bible, and it means, “God with us.” That alone should comfort and strengthen us for 2011. But He goes deeper and promises, “I will help you.” He plays an active role in our lives in many ways, some plain to see and others unrecognized.
The Psalmist was strengthened by the thought, “..He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways” (Psalm 91:11 NASB). The apostle Paul exuberantly shouted to us, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). Welcome, 2011. Bring it on.