For the New Year...

A new year has dawned, swiftly it seems. As time passes and the line between one year and another is crossed, one's thoughts can naturally tend toward either regret of things past (unaccomplished goals) or anticipation of what's to come.

Yesterday, while visiting with a friend over lunch, we were discussing the year past and our goals and dreams for the year 2011. In the midst of the conversation it was clear that she had a neat perspective of looking forward into the new year. Her phrase echos in my mind a day later..."the new year is a time to push the 'reset button'."

Truly, we do celebrate the year that has passed...the faithfulness of God that sometimes is best seen in the form of remembered blessings and clear evidences of His leading and providence. We give thanks for the love of family and friends that He has lavished upon us. And we realize in a deeper way how He is near to the brokenhearted...blessing even those who mourn...promising joy which comes in the morning.

I have found that the beginning of a new year is a grand opportunity to 'reset' and prayerfully wait upon the Lord to speak into my heart His will and vision for my life in the next 12 months. I am so thankful, too, to begin year 4 of going through the Bible with the Daily Audio Bible podcast. The story of scripture...and the journey that we are all a part of, is clarified more each day by time spent in His word. Below, my goals for 2011 are best articulated by scripture:

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

Romans 12:12 NIV

Forever grateful for the 'reset' of each new year...