I am Resolved

The Christmas presents are unwrapped. The Christmas treats are (mostly) eaten. And I'm thinking about putting away the decorations today. We had a blessed Christmas. So many small moments of wonder and beauty. I hope you can take the time to reflect on your Advent season and remember the many ways God smiled on you.

Now in a few days, we will ring in the New Year. I swore off making New Year's resolutions several years ago, but there is something about a New Year that prompts me to consider changes I want to make in my life.

Last year at this time, I thought I knew what 2012 would hold. I thought I had a plan (Oh, how God must laugh at mere mortals making plans!). Let's just say, it was a different year than I anticipated. And many of my plans simply were not meant to be. We have had challenge after challenge this year, but with those challenges, I have seen and experienced amazing growth in our faith in God, in our confidence that "All things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to his purpose," Romans 8:28. We have held on to that verse these last few months and will continue to cling to it.

So, as I look to 2013, I lay my plans at the cross. I confess that I will accomplish nothing without God's strength and direction. I place my life, my family, my goals in his hands and will choose to dwell in the shelter of his wing. I have just one resolution this year. I am resolved to follow the Savior, Faithful and true each day; Heed what He sayeth, do what He willeth, He is the living Way.

I am Resolved words by Palmer Hartsough

I am resolved no longer to linger,
Charmed by the world’s delight,
Things that are higher, things that are nobler,
These have allured my sight.

Refrain

I will hasten to Him, hasten so glad and free;
Jesus, greatest, highest, I will come to Thee.
I will hasten, hasten to Him, hasten so glad and free;
Jesus, Jesus, greatest, highest, I will come to Thee.

I am resolved to go to the Savior,
Leaving my sin and strife;
He is the true One, He is the just One,
He hath the words of life.

Refrain

I am resolved to follow the Savior,
Faithful and true each day;
Heed what He sayeth, do what He willeth,
He is the living Way.

Refrain

I am resolved to enter the kingdom
Leaving the paths of sin;
Friends may oppose me, foes may beset me,
Still will I enter in.

Refrain

I am resolved, and who will go with me?
Come, friends, without delay,
Taught by the Bible, led by the Spirit,
We’ll walk the heav’nly way.

Refrain

I am resolved, and who will go with me? Come, friends, without delay.