Out with the Old; in with the New

New Year's Eve is a time to reflect: on what we have achieved within the past twelve months; on what might have been; on injustices to us and others. As a nation, we might judge ourselves on how our football team performed in the World Cup; or how our elected representatives have served us. Sadly, neither of these indicators fill the author with confidence. On an individual level, we may be proud of what we have achieved in our work. We may have welcomed new-born family members or bid farewell to lifelong friends. We may be glad to see the back of this year. What makes us think next year will be any better, or worse?

The apostle Paul, in his letter to the church in Philippi, encourages us to forget what is behind, and strain forward to what is ahead in order to win the prize for which God has called us. (Philippians 3:13, 14).

So how will we move forward? Can we manage in our own strength? Some of us may feel that is the only way. "If it's to be, it's up to me." Well, personally, I tried to do it my way for many years; only to find that I couldn't achieve what I was setting out for. My trail through life is littered with hurt, broken relationships, personal failings and bruised pride. So where do we find this confidence that Paul refers to?

"But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ - the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith."

Philippians 3:7-9 New International Version

So, the answer seems to lie in not just believing in yourself, not even believing in Jesus. Paul tells us that not until we consider our own achievements of lesser importance than actually 'knowing' Jesus, and having faith that we become righteous only due to what Jesus achieved on our behalf on the cross, can we be considered righteous.

If you find that passage of scripture difficult to follow, or you do not understand the concept of 'knowing Jesus', you might be interested in joining others with questions on the subject of the Christian faith. The Alpha Course is available around the world. My local church in Brighton has a course starting in January. If you are not local to Brighton, you can find out where you can join a course here.

So, what will the New Year hold in store for us? My prayers are for sound leadership of our nation by honourable men and women, regardless of the political party that they represent. I also pray for fairness and justice for all. I pray for members of my family to know Jesus as I have come to know Him. I pray for financial blessings and for good health. Oh, and it would be nice for Brighton & Hove Albion to grace our new stadium with Championship level football next season.

What about you? What are your hopes and/or prayers for 2011?

Whatever you seek in the coming twelve months, I wish you every success.

May God pour His blessings on you.