I value the week between Christmas and New Years. I hit the “pause” button on the daily duties and responsibilities that consume life. Christmas itself drives the focus to the core of my faith – the birth of Jesus. Humbled by this undeserved gift, the seven days until New Years provide a window of contemplation, reflecting on the current year and considering the known and unknown challenges and opportunities immediately ahead.
Society-at-large is intriguing this time of year. Regardless of one’s faith, we seem to find ways to be kind, thoughtful, considerate, and peace loving during Christmas. We cannot help but wonder why these attitudes do not prevail beyond the season itself.
In the seven days between Christmas and New Years a metamorphosis takes place. As a society we turn from thoughtful consideration of self and others to reveling and self-indulgence. Remarkable don’t you think? We flip this switch as normal annual behavior. By January 2, we revert to our pre-Thanksgiving actions, attitudes, and habits – until this season next year.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8
The character of the one we celebrate at Christmas is solid. Who he is and how he lives are not governed by seasons, circumstances, or conditions. He delivers what he promises. We depend on his love and faithfulness in and out of season. He can be trusted unconditionally.
In thinking about my own role and responsibility heading into 2008, I intend to live and lead like Jesus when it comes to character and trust. There must be constancy and predictability of head and heart evident to those I walk with. This trust must be earned. Consider this an invitation to walk this walk with me. You need to know I am there for you and I need to know you are there for me. Together, with mutual respect, prayer, and accountability, we can bring trust, respect, and consistent character to a fickle world. I'm in. How about you?
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