A Look Back

I guess at some point we all have to look back in order to see if we've made any progress or if we're still at pretty much the same place. Birthdays tell us that we are definitely getting older and the changing seasons also mark the passing of time, but how do we tell if we've really grown or changed? (and does it really matter?) I remember the giraffe growth chart that we used to measure the kids against to show their height. That was a very visible way to see growth. If only it was that easy today.

2006 is almost in the history books and I am wondering about how I spent the time. In the end, I can't really say if I've done anything that would be noteworthy. While I have shared my heart, thoughts and perspectives with others, it is doubtful that anything that I've said or done has had a major impact on their lives. I hope that I have given some a reason to smile, laugh or forget their troubles for brief moments throughout the year. Maybe a kind word or deed has helped to give hope in the midst of a trial.

I have really enjoyed blogging this year and hope to continue. I haven't done much in the way of working on the book, but would like to devote some time to that this year. I done a few new things in ministry this past year and would like to continue to grow in that area. (I guess # of bookings is a measuring stick for growth.) I would also like to expand my work in magic to doing more events outside of churches and church events. I'm eligible to retire in 5 years, 1 week and 4 days (but who's counting?). I would like to go the day I'm eligible and have a good Mininstry/Magic business established.

I am looking forward to 2007. I hope that it will hold new experiences as well as allowing me to repeat some of the fun things of the past. In ministry, the year begins with 2 evangelism conferences in January and one in February. I am really looking forward to seeing old friends and making some new friends and contacts at these events. Aaron,(my son) will graduate from high school this year and begin college at the end of summer. Hannah (daughter) will get her driver's license in the fall. They are both good kids and I am extremely proud of them. Chris (my wife) keeps thing together for the rest of us. She's the one that keeps us as a family, reminding me when I'm spending too much time elsewhere, making time for the kids, reminding us of the importance of "family time."

I guess I'll have to make the resolution to be a better steward of my time. I know that the 24 hour thing is the same for all of us. I'll have to find a way to live each day well; to glorify God, to share His love and to grow.

May 2008 find us better, richer, and more like Jesus than we are today.

John

I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
Jesus of Nazareth, John 10:10