I have never been a big New Year’s Resolution guy. For some reason it was not something I embraced. Nothing against those who make them and stick to them … however, for me, it was not normally part of my New Year routine. Having said that, allow me to embrace this idea as a way of launching the New Year together.
For many people, resolutions become a dedicated focus, emphasis, task and mission for the upcoming year. According to US News, 80% of New Years Resolutions fail by the second week of February[1]. That is a high failure rate. So why do so many people do it? Why do so many people fail? Perhaps it is because we are focusing on the wrong thing.
The book of Revelation gives us a glorious glimpse into who Jesus is, what He has done, what He is doing and will continue to do. One of the many things that John heard was this statement, “Look! I am making everything new.” (Rev. 21:5)
Flowing with the rhythm of hearing and seeing, John once again hears, turns and sees something that has been made new. It is a glorious picture of God’s people fully redeemed. The Bride who is now completely pure and flawless is re-united with her Groom. Hallelujah! As the people of God, we find tremendous joy in knowing that our final destination and dwelling is with Him! However, here is the challenge. There is another who desires humanity’s focus.
The devil and his beasts stand in direct opposition to The Lamb of God and the people of God. Leading humanity astray, the beasts name and mark is given to those who worship it. A startling truth is unveiled: humanity resembles what it worships. The Apostle Paul understood this and encourages the people of God to not only know about, but to become like the One we worship; to become like Christ (Philippians 3:10-11).
That is why we as the people of God, need to move past resolutions and embrace a holistic worship of The Lamb that permeates mind, body and soul. This transformation hinges upon our worship of God and His Lamb who makes all things new. The present tense of the Greek work ‘make’ suggests that God is making all things new even now! [2].
So, make this year a year of being marked by the transforming presence of God. Make this year a year of holistic worship, a worship of God that permeates, renews, transforms and makes new our minds, bodies and spirits. Let us move past resolutions and embrace transformation!
Maranatha!
[1] http://www.businessinsider.com/new-years-resolutions-courses-2016-12
[2] Chris Tomas, The Apocalypse: A literary and Theological Commentary, CPT Press: Cleveland, TN pg. 626.
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