I suppose I’m getting contemplative as 2011 comes to a close. Describing my thoughts is like giving detailed descriptions of spaghetti; so many strands of thought…. I think it’s fair to say that none of us has ever seen a year like 2011, and it’s even more sobering to realize that 2011 is only gestation for 2012! Not all the news has been good, in fact most has been devastating and bodes terminally for the good old USA – but in Jesus Christ it has all been GLORIOUS! (No wonder the heathen call us crazy!!). And it’s going to get better!! Imagine that!
One of the very best things about being a Christian is the opportunity to see the world through God’s eyes, and from His vantage point. Oh, I guess we could very likely see the fabric of our “world” here in America fall apart during the coming year, and I suppose there could be increased violence to a scale we’ve hitherto been insulated against, for the roots of our tree have already been cut. But sadly, while the branches begin to wither, we seem to be caught up in a “business as usual” attitude. And I have to declare with gusto: “Were it not for Jesus, I’d be wringing my hands with the best of them. But with Jesus, I’m feeling increasingly secure and at peace.” Do you feel that way too? It’s your birthright as a Family member.
One of the best qualities of Jesus is that He never disappoints. The old truism: “Familiarity breeds contempt” simply doesn’t apply to Him, and the more I get to really know Him, the more I’m able to love Him more. With other people we’re sometimes afraid (root = FEAR) to really be intimate because we know that somewhere down the road we’ll have to grapple with disappointment, and so will they, but it doesn’t happen that way with Jesus. His personality is infinitely more fascinating and satisfying with every passing day. He stands alone in that category – and with no competition.
Jesus is what He is; He doesn’t change – ever, for there’s simply no need for it. While He brings about change, and seems to be the author of it, He, Himself never changes. If He loves you today, He’ll love you the same tomorrow. He’s not going to like you more or less as the years go by. And don’t wait for Him to apologize – He will never need to do that. He’s perfect and completely complete in His personality and in all His ways. While He may seem different as we mature in our knowledge of Him, in actuality we are being changed – not Him.
So with 2012 coming upon this United (Sodom) of America we live in, it’s good to know He can be completely trusted and relied upon – forever (and that’s a long time!). All we have to do is learn how to live sold-out lives to Him. We can’t go fishing with the Master if our boats are anchored in this world. And frankly, that’s a full time job for me. You too?
So come on 2012! I have complete confidence that great judgments will happen to us as God attempts in His mercy to turn us from our evil path as a nation, for we are a desperately sinful and arrogant nation. And I have no doubt that we will be brought to our knees one way or another, as we are forced to choose who we will worship.
When you get right down to it, so very little we’re concerned about matters at all. There is only one thing that really matters. It’s so simple; almost offensively simple to some:
Jesus Christ died for those of us who want to really live. For those who really want to die, His death was in vain.
In 2012, please choose LIFE.
John
