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Across the Pastor’s Desk by Matt Hundley

As we embark upon a new year some among us will reflect over the last year and then make resolutions to do better this year than last. Things like resolving to be a better friend, spouse, parent, coworker or student — you fill in the blank for you.

Through the years I have found this to be an exercise in futility. While I hope that is not your experience, research shows that failure to keep New Year’s resolutions is more common than any of us care to admit. May I say that this year I am not making any resolutions, save one. To abide in Jesus!

Wait, I know things just got all religious, but what did you expect when you read a column titled, “Across the Pastor’s Desk”? But if you will allow me some leeway, I am not advocating you become more religious. Instead, I am advocating that each of us consider how we might find ways to change in life.

At the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.

The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.” — Matthew 7:24-25

He then contrasts the fate of those who do not listen to or implement his words. They too built their life, albeit upon sand as opposed to rock. Storms come against everyone in this parable.

Yet only a life wisely built upon the rock, which I take to be listening to and doing the words of Jesus, stood at the end. One might call this believing in and trusting Christ. Others may call it having faith. For me, this all began when I heard the gospel of Jesus Christ.

He was born of a virgin, suffered under Pontius Pilate — stop me if you’ve heard this.

But his birth is only the beginning. He lived a sinless life, fulfilled that law of Moses, died on the cross for us so that sin could be atoned for and forgiven by a holy God. He then rose from the grave and offers his righteousness to all who believe in him. This means those who listen to and trust him.

I’ve found Jesus to be true to his word. I’ve experienced his forgiveness and grown to share it with others. He became my Savior and now I follow him as my Lord. He has a unique perspective that I do not possess. He knows the end from the beginning. He is willing to offer those who humbly receive his guidance the wisdom and direction we need.

He pours out his Spirit on those who believe and this Spirit, it says in Galatians 5:22-23, produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control.

All good stuff we’re all longing for more of in this dark and broken world.

What if it’s all there waiting for you? What if real change begins by turning from doing things your way to receiving what God is offering you, namely, Jesus?

If you are interested in this, I’d welcome the opportunity to talk with you. I may be reached by calling 507-377-1412. If you leave your name and number, I will contact you and we can talk.

May your year be filled with more of the good stuff by doing less and turning to Jesus instead.

Matt Hundley is pastor at Albert Lea Vineyard Church.