Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear! Those who hear and don’t act are like those who glance in the mirror, walk away, and two minutes later have no idea who they are, what they look like. But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God—the free life!—even out of the corner of his eye, and sticks with it, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action. That person will find delight and affirmation in the action. James 1:22-25, The Message
The start of a New Year is a time for reflection, hope and the chance to make positive changes in our lives. For some, 2011 was a year of tremendous blessing while for others it was a year of challenge and heartbreak. Many people will rekindle the fire of good intention and will make New Years resolutions. According to www.2011resolutions.org/ the top ten New Years resolutions for 2012 are to:
1) Lose weight
2) Get organized
3) Spend less, save more
4) Enjoy life to the fullest
5) Stay fit and healthy
6) Learn something exciting
7) Quit smoking
8) Help others in their dreams
9) Fall in love
10) Spend more time with family
There is certainly nothing wrong with making resolutions to improve the quality of our lives or the lives of others, but if good intentions do not give birth to action they are really of little value.
As we take time to reflect on 2011 and look ahead with determination at the year ahead, let’s remember to thank God for all the blessings of life and how He has revealed Himself to us this past year. Let’s also join together and ask God to help us become men and women of faith and action. Faith and action have been described as the two blades of scissors that compliment and work together to accomplish God’s will in the world. God’s will is that all discover and accept the love and grace that is found in Christ alone.
Dear Lord thank you that you do not change like our promises and good intentions. Your intentions are all good and what you promise always comes to pass. Help us to see your work in the world and to have the wisdom and courage to join you in what you are doing. Help us to be sharp and effective tools in your Holy hands dear Lord so that we can know and love you more as we experience your presence in our lives.
Manna and Coffee 