A New View
Moving into a new year is always interesting. Reflecting on the past and looking towards a fresh start seem to keep our thoughts swirling. Ideas of what is to come are exciting, full of hope and adventure. On the other hand, this time is difficult because last year’s failures or missed opportunities cloud our vision.
There must be balance in our minds. How do we grow from the past, both good and bad, and aspire for new heights?
As followers of Jesus, this should be somewhat simple, but often it is not. The noise of life gets all our attention. Then we miss it. We miss Him!
I cannot help but wonder if the reason we feel the need to make resolutions is rooted in what we view as regrets? If our thoughts are bogged down in worry and anxiety, how can we really see where we are called to head?
The Apostle Paul sees a group of his friends losing focus. This group of folks lived in a small town. And they were being influenced by several outside sources. Simply put, these influences had clouded Paul’s friends’ judgement. They were getting caught up in the noise of life. Does this sound familiar?
Paul writes them a letter, with the hopes of encouraging and redirecting his friends.
He says things like - Focus on Jesus. Don’t shuffle along absorbed on things right in front of you. Get your eyes up. See things the way Jesus sees them. (Colossians 3)
One line really jumps out at me. (Honestly, I must go back to it often, because I lose focus.) He writes, “Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.” (Colossians 3:17 MSG)
Have you ever thought about that? Everything we do should point toward Jesus.
What would happen if we started looking solely at Jesus? Not getting lost in the past or just dreaming of a day down the road. But holding our eyes up. Focused clearly on the One who is guiding us. Would our worries and regrets shift? Shift towards opportunities to grow, learn and thrive.
How about this year, no great resolutions or ideas? Just this simple one, Jesus. Focus on Him and let your everything, your “whatever” bring glory to Him. This might be the formula for the best time in your life.