“Writings from off the
Sanctuary Wall” ~ January's Article
RESOLUTIONS
A Happy New Year one and all! Did you make
any resolutions for this New Year? I gave some thought and would like to
suggest seven resolutions that deal with our attitudes and actions.
This year wake up! Begin the day with the Lord. It is His day. Rejoice
in it. When you wake up, dress up. Put on a smile. It improves your
looks. It says something about your attitude. During the year, shut up!
Watch your tongue. Don’t gossip. Say nice things about one another.
Learn to listen. In 2010 stand up! Take a stand for what you believe,
not what someone else says to believe. Resist evil and do good. Mr.
Wesley encouraged Methodists to do that. Remember to look up. Open your
eyes to the Lord this year. After all, He is your only Savior. Work at
reaching up. Spend time in prayer with your adorations, concessions,
thanksgivings, and supplications to God. And finally, lift up. Always be
available to help those in need: serving, supporting, and sharing.
So, if you haven’t made any resolutions yet, what about my suggestions?
Why do we bother to make New Year’s resolutions in the first place? Why
do we feel this need each January 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 God has given?” The New Year reminds us that time is
passing. It is up to each of us to maximize the potential of every
moment.
May you keep your resolutions in 2010.
Blessings,
Chuck
(The opinions expressed in this newsletter are
not always God’s, nor the General Conference of the United Methodist
Church. This newsletter is a high-speed, roller coaster type
condensation of information pertaining to your local congregation,
Johnstown District, or the Western Pa. Annual Conference and is not
recommended for people with heart ailments, back problems, advanced
Theological degrees, inner ear disorders, and/or people inclined to get
upset over the littlest of things.)
THANK
YOU
Carol and I hope that everyone enjoyed our Christmas Gathering for
clergy and families last month at Arbutus Manor. It was good to spend
the evening with each of you. A special thanks to Buddy and the staff at
Arbutus for preparing and serving our dinner. I would also like to thank
Dr. Steve Tuell and his family band for sharing with us. Weren’t they
great? Thank you clergy spouses for your assistance in coordinating
invitations and arrangements. Carol and I want to say thank you for your
kindness and support over the past eight years. It has been a blessing
to share in ministry with all of you and I give thanks for the work you
do. Thank you for your gifts to us, but most important, we give thanks
for your love.
Chuck & Carol