HAPPY NEW YEAR, and welcome to 2012!! There are some strange people on one of the cable channels that tout the idea that this will be a catastrophic year. This is based on an ancient Mayan calendar and how some interpret the writings of an old French seer. It is human nature to be curious about the future. Be careful who you listen to. Not everyone is reading from the same Book! The Bible tells us all we need to know about the future. 1) Christ will return (John 14: 3); 2) no one knows the day or hour (Matthew 24:36); 3) as Christians our future is secure in His hands (II Tim 1:12), and, 4) we must be faithful in our stewardship and busy in our Father’s kingdom (I Cor 4:2).
A new year gives us an opportunity to examine ourselves and make some needed changes in life. Maybe there are some harmful habits we need to break free of; maybe there are some strained relationships that need to be strengthened; or perhaps some of our spiritual disciplines need to be sharpened. Spiritual disciplines include personal Bible reading and prayers, corporate worship, stewardship, outreach, and service to others. We should never be satisfied with the status quo. Just as young Jesus ‘grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men’ (Luke 2:52), so we are called to ‘grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.’ (II Peter 3:18) Let’s grow together in 2012.
Your Pastor, Robert