How do I enter 2011? Well, after reading that passage, I want to head into what lies before us in this New Year like a child who comes to Jesus with complete trust and total reliance on Him.
It may sound strange - if you heard me sing, it would sound really strange - but I ocassionally break out the old Book of Hymns I grew up with during my devotional time. I love contemporary worship songs, but I also love how some "ancient" hymns of the faith capture the heart and reality of following Christ.
As I reflected upon "coming to Jesus" this New Year with the humility and faith of a child, the hymn "Jesus I Come" popped into my head. Not really remembering the lyrics, I opened the Book of Hymns and was blown away by how fitting the words are for beginning a new day, and a New Year! Here's the first stanza:
Out of my bondage, sorrow, and night, Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into Thy freedom, gladness and light, Jesus, I come to Thee;
Out of my sickness into Thy health, Out of my want and into Thy wealth,
Out of my sin and into Thy-self, Jesus, I come to Thee.
Isn't that a great resolution for the New Year? It covers a lot of life...joy, health, finances, and relationship with God! Perhaps the deepest line, and the one that has motivates me most says:
Out of my shameful failure and loss, Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into the glorious gain of Thy cross, Jesus, I come to Thee
Like a child, I "come to Jesus" in 2011 humbled by His love for one like me, and ready to live in a bold faith that presses forward the glory of His cross!
How will you enter this New Year? Will you "come to Jesus"? He's ready and waiting for you!
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