2009 New Year’s Resolution

So, I know January is almost over…HOWEVER, my resolution is still relevant. But, before launching into my New Year’s Resolution for 2009, I feel obligated to update you on last year’s resolution.  Last year, I gave up diet coke in efforts to eliminate my typically heavy intake of the artificial sweetener called Aspartame.  It was the first year I actually came up with a resolution and I’m happy to say I haven’t had diet coke (or Aspartame) since 2007.  Now would be the time to congratulate me on my extraordinary will power.  Thank you.

This year, I won’t be giving up a food group.  Nor will I be committing to exercise (I already do that…thank you, again).  No, this year’s resolution will look a little differently.

I’m hoping to accomplish two things.  First, I want to commit to reading through the Bible in a year.  But, I don’t want to just read it.  I want study it.  Understand it.  Ask questions about it.  And this takes time.  I have a habit of breezing through things at the surface level…usually because I don’t have enough time.  I’m either needing to get cleaned up to go somewhere (i.e. work) or my favorite TV show is coming on in 15 minutes.  I must be intentional about the time I devote to reading.

And, I even have a website to help me along.  It’s called Back to the Bible.  They provide several different reading plans for readers to choose from.  I opted for the chronological plan.

Secondly, I’m hoping to apply the words found in Acts 20:24 to my life.  It’s going to be my theme verse for the year (or perhaps longer).  It says, “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.”

Luke had it right.  The most important thing in life is not riches and fame.  It’s not what we accomplish or who we befriend.  Rather, it’s about sharing the good news of God’s grace.  God loves us for no reason.  We don’t earn it, nor do we deserve it.  But, it’s given to us nonetheless.  Grace.  Why shouldn’t I share it?  

So, in 2009, I want to pursue God.  Serve others.  Love beyond condition.  

…And thereby testify to God’s grace.   

That’s it.