New Year, New Opportunities...

It's a new year and with it comes multiple opportunities. There are opportunities to do what is right, and opportunities to do what is wrong. The choice is mine. Sometimes the weight of this burden bends me to the ground. Other times, like the start of a new year, this load is carried with enthusiasm and optimism. There is just something energizing about a fresh start.

One of my favorite Scripture passages is Lamentations 3:22-24, "The unfailing love of the Lord never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh every day. I say to myself, 'The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!'" (New Living Translation) What a promise each day brings forth of the goodness and mercy of God. With such a "fresh start" to each day it is a wonder sometimes why I am not enthusiastic and optimistic every moment of every day.

But I need reminders...often. Daily, in fact. Many times I am slow to remember the mercies of God, choosing instead to focus my attention on the miseries of this world. I might disconnect from people, retreat to the comfort of my selfish aloneness, and seek to satisfy the deep hunger of my heart. Thankfully, God is faithful to lift my head and heart out of the enticing lures of this world and set my attention squarely on the truth, the truth that reminds me, "Yea, but by the grace (and mercy) of God go I." He sustains me, rescues me, protects me, and guides me - often unbeknownst to even me!

This year will be filled with innumerable opportunities. Thanks be to God that His mercy endures forever, His faithfulness is great, and in Him I find the hope to seize this day.

Seeking opportunities to do good,

jonathan