January 1, 2009 - New Year Resolutions

Meditation on Matthew 19

It is very important to make New Year resolutions. If we don’t, we are probably not planning to make progress in our lives. We may fail to keep it up. But we can pick it up again and continue to pursuit our objectives after evaluation. We still will improve by the grace of God.

For this New Year, Matthew 19 provides the best suggestion for our New Year resolution. We see Jesus emphasizes relationship here.

First we should pay attention to strengthen our marital relationship. Jesus points out that the relationship between husband and wife: "Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate." Unless you are gifted by God or determined by circumstances that you are not going to get married, otherwise plan to marry for life. Then those who are married should determine to grow in their relationship in 2009 with God's help. (v. 1-10 NKJV) Jesus cared very much for children than some of us, His disciples. It is very important for husband and wife to care much for their children too rather than just care for one's own interest. (v. 13-15) That's another reason why we should not take divorce as the alternative.

Second, we should make resolution to strengthen our relationship with Jesus. The rich, lovely young wanted to follow Jesus but did not do so because He had much possession. He loved money more than Jesus. Jesus wants to be our first priority in relationship. Do you want to follow Him in 2009 all the time or just some of the time? Let us decide to go after Him. Jesus says there will be great reward in this life and in the life to come for those who love Him more than any others. (v. 16-30)