Happy New Year! And congratulations, you made it to 2021. I think many of us are breathing a sigh of relief today, but the truth is that we are much stronger, wiser, and all-around better people than we were this time last year. Walking through the fire and enduring the difficulties of 2020 offered us a precious gift, and I pray that we won’t lose sight of it in the days ahead. As we look forward to resuming life as normal (whenever and whatever it is), let’s not forget how precious it was to be reminded of what’s most important. As we’ve brought our focus closer to home in the past ten months, God has used a trying time to align our hearts with His priorities and to give us greater compassion for our fellow human beings. With this newfound awareness of our priorities, let’s resolve to live abundantly in the days ahead. Even though uncertainty still lingers, let’s be bold in expecting the Holy Spirit to move as we commit our time, talent, and treasure again to the work of His Kingdom. While we begin our new year’s journey, let’s set goals, write them down, pray over them, and partner with Jesus to make them happen. As long as it is called today, let’s encourage each other to keep moving forward and to show the world what it means to live and love like our Lord does.

My friend, I believe in you, and so does your Heavenly Father. You are important in this world, and your life has great impact. You are loved more than you can fathom, and when God looks at you, His heart overflows with joy because He sees the image of His Son. He delights in your life, and He wants to spend every day of the coming year abiding with you, helping you, and reminding you of how much He cares for your soul. Look to Him, let Him lead, expect His best, and know that whatever happens, you will never be alone. He is with you on the mountaintops and in the valleys, and He is filling you with His presence so you beam with a deep joy that is always noticed by others. You are full of faith, full of life, and full of peace, and you are here to change the world. As long as it is called today, unswervingly carry out your calling, and you’ll be astonished by how He works through you to bless others!