Hello 2020



Wow! Another year has flown by. It seems as if yesterday, I was sitting at my desk writing down a New Year’s resolution for 2019. And here I am again, but something is different, and that is my view on some priorities. As is the case with most of us, we write down goals like: read the Bible more, pray more, workout more, eat better, travel here, do this, do that. At least that’s kind of how my list looked like. However, I’d like to share how a recent family trip changed my outlook on life.

Just recently, we returned from a trip to a couple of countries where we spent the holidays. One country in particular caught my attention. To describe this country, you could say that by far it is not on the list of “wealthiest countries in the world”. In fact, you could consider it quite the opposite. However, what amazed me the most and touched my heart were the people.  They are about the happiest, content, and hospitable bunch that I have ever come in contact yet. They don’t have a lot, but they give much. I know this may sound cliché, but happiness is in the heart, not in things! It is the ability to find joy and contentment in what God has already given you. This thought flows right into my next point.

While staying there, we had the great privilege of celebrating Christmas with our dear friends.  Together we sang songs, shared stories, visited people, and simply enjoyed each other’s company. The day before leaving, I stood a little on the side and watched how our families sang together. The scene warmed my heart and I thought, “We spend so much time, resources, energy chasing our goals, trying to accomplish so much. When in truth, you could have the largest house, fanciest car, best job, and be so lonesome. On the other hand, you could have practically nothing, but if you have family and friends you have everything, you are the richest person in the world!”

That is why this year, my new year’s resolution is simply to find joy in everything and cherish the people that God has placed in my life. The rest will fall into place.

Sincerely,