Reflections of the past year

“We can make our own plans, but the Lord gives the right answer.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16:1‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16:9‬ ‭NLT‬‬

If this past year has taught us anything, it should be that we are not in control. Regardless of our plans and agenda, God’s Will ultimately prevails. I do not believe it is God’s will to see us sick, distressed, and separated. However, we should not be surprised that the world is sick and dying. We should not be surprised that the world is disappointing.

All the ways of the world are opposite of what God has promised us in Heaven. That’s what gives us hope. This past year has shown that the government will not save us, science will not save us, we can not save ourselves- only Jesus can. God is still sovereign. Regardless of what is to come, God is still good. Whatever this next year brings, we have the same promise that we have always had- the promise of eternity.

I don’t know if the next year will bring you that answer you’ve been waiting for. I don’t know if that thing you’ve been praying about is going to happen. I don’t know if this is your year to win. But, let me remind you, that with Christ, you are a winner even in loss. God is already seeing your life in its entirety so we have nothing to fear.

In this next year, perhaps we should carry some of the lessons of this year with us- even if the pandemic ends. We can still agree to remember that people are important and we need each other. We can still remember that there are more ways to connect with people than in person. We can still remember that the church is not the building but the people. We can still remember that prayer is powerful. We can still remember that everything here is temporary and subject to change (quickly). And, above all, let us remember that God’s ways are higher than ours. God is still on the throne. We need a savior, and we are not in control. Let us share these lessons with others. Let us hold each other accountable. Let us make more disciples.

Wishing you all blessings in the New Year.