How Will You Enter 2011?

As we begin the first work week of the New Year, this scripture from my devotional reading jumped out at me, Jesus said: "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it" (Mark 10:14-15).

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!