As I begin 2013, this thought has been on my mind. There were many people who started 2012 not knowing that it would be their last. I’ve known them. And so have you. We are not so different from them, are we?
When I look in the rearview mirror, I see the years gathering up behind me, and I can hardly believe how quickly they’ve piled up. As life rattles forward, it seems the earth makes its annual journey a little quicker than the year before. Where have the years gone?
It’s well past time for me to start wondering whether there may be more years behind me than there are in front of me. I don’t mean to be dour or macabre in saying such a thing. It’s just that pondering that possibility tends to focus the mind on what God wants it focused on. Numbering our days is how we present to God a heart of wisdom (Psalm 90:10-12). As the ball drops into the silliness of Time Square, it anchors the soul to know how transient you really are (Psalm 39:4).
There are a lot of things that I want out of life—a lot of things I’d like to achieve before the curtain falls. But there is one thing I know for sure. As I watch the curse grind up the world and everyone I love in it, there is only one thing that really matters to me. If I fail at everything else, I must have this: I want to be known by Him and to see all of His promises come true (1 Cor. 8:3; Gal. 4:9; Rev. 21:5). All around my heart is eventually going to give way, and when it does I want Him (Phil. 3:7-14). And I want that hope to break in to all the rest of the now’s that God may be pleased to give me. That’s it.
And so I begin this year with the words of a song—“Happy New Year”—and I share them with you (listen below, download here). 2013 is another chance to catch a glimpse of what is coming true. The God who made everything is remaking everything—including us. He is making all the sad things come untrue. And He says, “I’m making all things new” (Rev. 21:5).
Knowing that is the only way to have a happy new year. And it’s the only way I know how to wish you to have one.
So, Happy New Year!
6 Comments
Jill hamilton
This is truly excellent writing! I has no idea you were such a wordsmith, Denny! Thanks for this blessing.
Denny Burk
Thanks, Jill! I appreciate your commenting!
rachel hood
that is what is was thinking too, Jim! my favorite is ” As life rattles forward, it seems the earth makes its annual journey a little quicker than the year before.” when my grandfather wrote his memoirs he proclaimed “halleluiah for lasting memories whtn time leaves us at the speed of light!” I have thought much recently about the number of days behind…
Becky G. Miller
That’s a good thing, Rachel and I really like what you quoted from your Grandfather! Hallelujah again!!!
Denny Burk
Great to hear from you, Rachel. Thanks for sharing that about Two Daddy.
Becky G. Miller
I don’t think it’s any coincidence (don’t believe in them) that the years go by faster and faster as “life rattles forward”. It is God’s desire that none should perish, but that all would come to repentance and the knowledge of Jesus Christ. The two connect in my mind. Oh, sorry. That was an excellent writing, Denny!