Resolutions are good, especially if there are changes we need to make in our lives. I heard about one poor guy who dialed his girlfriend and got the following recording: I am not available right now, but thank you for caring enough to call. I am making some changes in my life. Please leave a message after the beep. If I do not return your call, you are one of the changes.
It is good to make changes, for the most part. As we are often reminded by our critics, our spouses or our children, none of us is perfect. In fact, some of us might have some deep regrets about the way we have lived our lives. Why do we bother to make New Year’s resolutions in the first place: Why do we feel this need each January 1 to set new goals? Maybe it is because resolutions help us to identify our priorities. They answer the question: how do I want to invest my time, energy, money, and talents in this New Year? The New Year reminds us that time is passing. It is up to each of us to maximize the potential of every moment. So, If you are going to make New Year’s resolutions this year, let me suggest Rev. Schoedel’s list. He calls them 7-UPS for the New Year:
- The first is Wake UP: Begin the day with the Lord. It is His day. Rejoice in
it. - The second is Dress UP: Put on a smile. It improves your looks. It says
something about your attitudes and actions. - The third is SHUT UP: Watch your tongue. Don’t gossip. Say nice things.
Learn to listen. - The fourth is STAND UP: Take a stand for what you believe. Resist evil.
Do good. - Five: LOOK UP: Open your eyes to the Lord. After all, He is your only
Savior. - Six: REACH UP: Spend time in prayer with your adorations, confessions,
thanksgivings and supplications to the Lord. - And finally, LIFT UP: Be available to help those in need, serving,
supporting, and sharing.
