If you’re wondering if your hopes and expectations for 2021 were misguided, you’re not alone. It feels like we caught our collective breath for just a few days before political unrest, personal heartache, and life in general squashed our anticipation faster than you can say “vaccine.”
But if 2020 taught us anything, it’s that we must adapt and surrender all of it to the One who is always in control. The stroke of midnight on January 1st was never a harbinger of “better” things to come – not on this side of heaven. Rather, the new year — like a Monday, the first day of the month, or any day in between — offers an opportunity for a fresh start, a time for examination of the heart and a spiritual reset.
Recently, Pastor Rich Villodas outlined four of the most important questions we need to engage for a spiritually healthy 2021. His encouragement is to spend a few minutes pondering these as you discern the way God is calling you to order your life this year.
- What are the spiritual disciplines you need to keep you connected to God?
- What are the practices of self-care you need to attend to your body and nurture your soul?
- What core relationships do you need to support you on your journey?
- What are the gifts, passions, and burdens within you that God wants you to express for the blessing of others?
So let’s not pack up our hopes for 2021 and go home. Instead, let’s purpose to align our wills with God's — to connect with others, use our gifts, and practice healthy rhythms that lead to flourishing. It won’t necessarily change what unfolds this year, but it will adjust our hearts to meet whatever challenges we face.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” ~ John 16:33
