Happy New Year! 2009

So who started new years resolutions?

It seems to be the topic of newscasts, newspapers and neighborhoods. In fact, even our church is doing a series called, "Under Construction": discussing ways that God is always using us to build and shape and mold ourselves to be more like Him.

Because of all the hype, without much prompting, I think most of us find ourselves looking back on the last year, and thinking about ways to improve the next.

#1 doesn't everyone (almost) vow to eat better or exercise more (or both?)
How is that REALLY possible with four college football games New Year's Day?
(have you EVER been to a football party where something healthy was offered to eat?)

Okay, I admit it, I think I would benefit from more exercise and less junk food.
But it really does TASTE better than salad, and I hate to run.
The real motivation has to come from somewhere.

Last year my father-in-law died at the young age of 57. He had liver failure and heart problems, and was unhealthy for most of the time I knew him. Overweight, smoking and watching TV for a sport. He was a wonderful, caring man. He would, literally, give you the shirt off his back. In fact, when Mike and I married, we didn't have a mattress, he gave us one. We didn't learn until later, that he gave us HIS.

Would his life be different if he hadn't smoked?

.......if he had walked a mile (or 2) instead of watching a 30 minute sitcom?

........IF...............

WHAT IF ?

What if I KNEW that I could add 10 years to my life by walking that 30 minutes after work?

What if I knew that eating an apple instead of a bag of chips would prevent a heart attack when I'm 60?

What if I knew the future and could see the results of my actions?

Wouldn't that be ROCKING COOL??

Wouldn't it be EASIER to make the right choices if I just KNEW the outcome?

Jeremiah: 29
This is what the Lord Almighty the God of Israel says....
Build houses and settle down: plant gardens and eat what they produce. Marry and have sons and daughters. Increase in number. Seek the peace and prosperity of the city, because if it prospers, you too will prosper. For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

I believe the outcome has been chosen for me.........

will I do what it takes to make it happen?

Maybe I will take a walk and think about it....... and take an apple with me.

Happy New Year!