2009 by Colorcubic.com

I really enjoy the celebration of the New Year’s holiday. Now, I’m not referring just to the traditional aspects that involve socializing with others until midnight; those gatherings can be fun, and I certainly do enjoy ringing in the new year with good friends. Rather, my favorite part of the celebration is actually the opportunity that it creates to conduct an introspective examination of our life and conduct.¬†It’s true that we can (and truthfully should) do these evaluations throughout the year as well, but the new year creates a uniquely natural break in the normal rhythm of life. This break, often paired with a day or two (or more!) of rest from one’s work is a perfect opportunity to both look back, and plan ahead.

When I wrote my year-end post last year, I had no idea what to expect for the year to come. As I look back at 2009, I’m struck with the realization that it was a time of both blessing and struggle for myself and my family. However, I can honestly say that I felt Christ was present and active through all of it.

Rather than focusing on the struggles, I’d like to take just a moment to share some of the things that were blessings to me this year.

• My wife, Diana Lin. I am so thankful for the ways we grew together this year. Diana, I love you more today than I ever have.
• My kiddos, Elijah and Moriah. While there are moments that these two could wind up in the “struggles list”, the reality is that they bring me immense joy. There is nothing better than an “I love you, Daddy!” when things are tense.
• My family. This includes all three sets (the Sisk’s, the Flack’s and the Stiles’). I’ve grown closer to all of them this past year, and I truly value their wisdom, love, and faith.
• My church. This year marked my third year as a pastor, and my first in full-time ministry, which I love. The love and grace that the people of NCF have shown me is amazing; I’m so glad to serve here.
• Old friends. In some ways 2009 was a hard year on my friendships. I didn’t spend nearly as much time with old friends as I have in years past. However, I am blessed to have a handful of folks who are literally like family, and always there in¬†crisis situations.
• New friends. In other ways 2009 was a great year for my friendships. I’ve met a handful of people through Twitter and Facebook who have become real friends in the offline world, meeting for meals and conferences. I am especially thankful for my CBMNE brothers!

I guess this list is the kind of list you’d usually share during a Thanksgiving Day feast, but it’s what is on my heart tonight, just hours from 2010. So, what does 2010 have in store? I don’t have any more of an idea than I did last year, but I know that God is ultimately in control of all of it… and that gives me incredible hope!

Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand. РProverbs 19:21 (ESV)

Happy New Year!