 It is Tuesday, two days into the New Year. I find myself filled with a mixture of feelings and emotions. There is, to a degree, a feeling of post-holiday relief as the schedule begins to relax. It’s time to pack away the endless Christmas decorations and the tree for another year. The same thing happens here on the church campus. Slowly but surely the trees and wreaths are safely packed away for another year. As I watch the last box go up the ladder to the attic on Charlie’s shoulders, I say with a heavy sigh, “it’s finally over, finally done.” It is then I hear the words I read to you from Isaiah, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined. Thou hast multiplied the nation, thou hast increased its joy; they rejoice before thee as with joy at the harvest, as men rejoice when they divide the spoil. For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, thou hast broken as on the day of Mid'ian. For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name will be called "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David, and over his kingdom, to establish it, and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and for evermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.” I listen and hear the message and realize, it’s not over. It has just begun! The combination of the Christmas message – the time of newness and birth and the opening of a new year is a beginning not an ending. Our attitude can make all the difference in what lies ahead. Henry David Thoreau wrote, “In the long run, men only hit what they aim at. Therefore . . . they had better aim at something high.” What an appropriate thought as we begin 2012. The year that opens before us can be one of growth for our fellowship if we aim high. We have opportunities in our personal spiritual lives and as a faith community to grow. It will take the effort of all of us. I am confident the year ahead will hold new opportunities for love and service. Let us set our sights high as God calls us to do His work. Bill
|
