What Is There to Look Forward to in 2006?

"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:12-14

Looking back on 2005, I have plenty of things to remember and be thankful for. Some of the highlights included completing my doctorate and going to Boston with my family for my graduation, successully climbing Mt. Rainier and several small peaks on the North Cascades, fly fishing, taking a team to Manila with my wife Heidi, having Heidi re-join the pastoral staff of Eastside, seeing our two children becoming more excited about youth group than ever before, and experiencing a rewarding year of ministry. Every year of growth is also full of challenges and some losses. Struggles in my life tend to have more to do with the personal challenges that come from being "not yet made perfect." -- Making mistakes, struggling with relationships, priorities, character development and striving to be the person God created me to be.

"One thing I do, forgetting what is behind I press on..."

Going into 2006 my hopes/resolution and goals include:

1. To live a life that reflects a growing and deepening love for God and His word.
2. To trim from my life things that keep me from doing the things God has called me to do.
3. To focus more on people, developing deeper friendships.
4. To approach each ministry opportunity with a wholehearted effort to do my best.
5. To grow in a confidence that flows out of God's affirmation of both who I am and what He has called me to do.
6. Two great missions trips: One to Europe and one to Manila.
7. To enjoy a deepening relationship with my wife and kids.

I also look forward to some suprises this year. God (and life) has a way of bringing unexpected and unplanned events that He works in. Only He knows what those will be.