Corner Post Messages
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Corner Post Messages......
from the Coordinator of Parish Ministries
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Another Chance to Make Resolutions
January 4, 2009 - Volume 1, Number 19 |
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At the beginning of every year, we have an opportunity to evaluate our lifestyle and make resolutions to change. We may make a resolution to cut back on the caloric intake by limiting the number of desserts or Coke products digested, or to join a health club and hop on the treadmill or elliptical machine three or four times a week for a good cardio workout. We may even make a resolution to daily read a portion of the scripture, start and maintain a prayer journal, or to step out of our comfort zone and chat with a neighbor or coworker about Christ's plan of salvation.
Over the years, I have joined thousands of others who have made resolutions. But like most, the practice of staying on course and not caving in to return to those less than desirable habits, lasted for a short time. For I too have uttered the convenient excuses, the lack of time or energy, which were enough for me to consciously make a decision not to continue what I had made up my mind to do in the first place. Sometime old habits are hard to break... and like the saying goes, that's why they are called habits!
Adam and Eve, having just eaten from the tree found in the middle of the garden, became aware of the absence of garments to cover their body. They realized that the One they had formed a relationship with as they took walks through the garden, was now someone they needed to hide from. They realized that the fruit they thought they would enjoy with its sweet flavor was now a fruit that left a bitter taste in their mouth. They would soon realize that the resolution to never make another mistake in judgment would prove to be disastrous. They would fall short, not only with each other, but also with God, numerous times before their earthly death.
However one resolution I am so grateful for is the one God the Father made to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. This resolution became a reality when Christ entered the world as a babe. It continued to be carried out as He lived His life among people, sharing with them that He alone was the Way, the Truth, and the Life. The resolution was fulfilled when He was beaten, tortured, and hung on a cross. Christ defined to the world what the word resolution means: to determine what needs to be changed and then have the courage to carry it through. Aren't we grateful He never uttered, "I don't have the time or the energy to carry out this plan!"
As we enter into a new year, what do you determine needs to be changed in both your personal and spiritual life? Do you have the courage to see it through? Do you have the stamina to endure the sweat, pain, and heartache that may be part of the change? Are you willing to give up something else in order for the desired change to take place? Are you willing to live a life like Christ's, to constantly share the message, to live the life that is pleasing to God, and to always seek God's will for direction?
To make a resolution to grow in our Christian faith and live a Christ-like life, and then share the Good News is tough. Christ even warns us that the path to Him is narrow. But in the long run, the prize is worth it. Will you join me in making a resolution to grow in faith and to share Christ's love with at least someone every month throughout 2009?
Enjoying the ride,
Jane
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