This
last day of 2018 is one of reflection. Reflection of what has
transpired and anticipation of what will be in 2019. We understand
both ourselves and the world around us by our reflections and purpose
to move forward as time passes into a new year.
The
apostle Paul did something like this in the last letter he wrote to
Timothy . He summarizes his final situation as follows.
2
Timothy 4 (World
English
Bible)
7 I
have fought the good fight. I have finished the course. I have kept
the faith. 8 From
now on, there is stored up for me the crown of righteousness, which
the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that day; and not
to me only, but also to all those who have loved his appearing.
Paul
plainly states that he was faithful. He had much opposition, but he
overcame all his adversaries with God’s help. I wonder, can all of
us say the same? Have we done our very best, or were we lacking?
Paul
looked forward to his heavenly reward. Characteristically, he thought
not just of himself, but of all who genuinely love (and faithfully
follow) God. Can we say the same?
So,
on that last day of 2018, spend some time on both reflection and
anticipation. If you can say the things Paul did, then fine; if not,
you still of the opportunity to change. But the question remains –
will you?