Life by Grace Alone

The whole idea of new year's resolutions began when the name of a Roman god was given to one of the months. Janus had 2 heads, one that could look behind him and one that could look in front of him. It is a good thing to take the time to assess where we are in life and how we should change. We don't need the help of a 2 headed god to do this since the Bible is filled with assurances that the one true God will aid us in our assessment, give us the gift of repentance and deliver us from evil. Sometimes it's a 3 steps forward, 2 steps back process but because He is an omnipotent, loving God progress and ultimately success is assured. In Lamentations 3:22, 23 we are encouraged by these words. " The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." If those who put their faith in Christ want to continue to make new year's resolutions, that's fine. Don't forget even if you don...

What is there about Christmas that encourages me to measure my life against perfection? Is it glossy magazines that boast perfectly decorated rooms and great spreads of food that promise to dazzle the taste buds as well as the eye? Perhaps I'm affected by idealized memories of Christmas past. Where does my idea of the perfect family come from where everyone is on the same page spiritually, where everyone relishes the same activities, where everyone agrees on important issues like politics, child raising, and finances? This year for the first time in 9 years our whole family was together for Christmas. The gathering was complete with a son-in-law, a daughter-in-law and three grandchildren. My mother's presence provided the apex of our family tree. We all enjoyed each others' company. We laughed together and we recounted memories of days passed. Although treasured ornaments adorned the tree and we ate cookies and cheese crackers from time honored recipes, there was no sign of...