The year 2019 seemed to pass like a wind. I have bittersweet realizations and beyond-comprehension-experiences-that-surpass-expectations to be thankful for. Let me start with the bittersweet. One, after 29 years of marriage and 26 years as a father, I feel like a clueless husband and father. Blatantly, Christ reminds me through them that I have no control over others. Two, through travel I am able to see possibilities beyond our borders; but I have a negative tendency to compare our nation to the other advance-nations. Yes, I tend to grumble. Just like Jonah?!1 But is my faith dependent on circumstance or the assurance of the Rock2 foundation on which I stand?
There are more painful lessons; yet, I am most thankful for them. Like a necessary thorn in the flesh3 to keep me aground for the revelations of grace. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is a gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.4
It is beyond understanding that I am allowed to push back and see the bigger picture beyond the present. What kind of god loves unconditionally like our God? In my brokenness I am assured—For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your name’s sake you lead me and guide me; you take me out of the net they have hidden for me, for you are my refuge.5 In times of uncertainty as his child (for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith6), I can chill and say, “But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hand; . . .7”
As leaders, know that to chill or to be still is not being passive; it is rather a posture of readiness.
Watch! As I look among the nations, and see, I wonder and am astounded. Surely, God is doing a work in our days that I would not believe if told.8 Being ready is being in position, looking out for signs, ears wide open, awaiting orders.9
Write! As we start the year 2020, it would be an opportune time to “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it.”10 The work we do is a group project.
Wait! For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.11 Be mindful. Deliberate. Intentional. Timing counts.
Like the psalter, I will rejoice and be glad in your steadfast love, because you have seen my affliction; you have known the distress of my soul, and you have not delivered me into the hand of the enemy; you have set my feet in a broad place.12
Notes:
1. Jonah 4:1-11
2. Psalm 18:2; 1 Samuel 2:2
3. 2 Corinthians 12:7
4. Ephesians 2:8-9
5. Psalm 31:3-4
6. Galatians 3:26
7. Psalm 31:14-15
8. Habakkuk 1:5
9. Habakkuk 2:1
10. Habakkuk 2:2
11. Habakkuk 2:3
12. Psalm 31:7-8
