Resolved.
For some this means being "firmly determined to do
something." In chemistry it means, "to separate (an optically inactive
compound or mixture) into its optically active components." For musicians
it means, "to cause (a chord or tone) to undergo resolution." But for
about 50 students and leaders resolved means a retreat in Ocean City, New
Jersey to celebrate the New Year. As a youth leader I always think that I'm in
youth ministry in order to help, but I am quickly shown again and again that
I'm the one in greatest need of help! Over the past two days there was great
teaching, worship through singing, and fellowship. One of the songs that we
sang was "All Glory be to Christ." Although I had heard it before it
hit me in a way that it never has before. Singing and reflecting on this
past year brought a lot of emotions and thoughts to my mind. I am so incredibly
thankful that Christ is the living water that satisfies my every need, that this living water is
given without price, and that ALL glory goes to Christ! We are told to come and
drink freely of the living water that is Christ. What a blessing and a joy
that we can remember that truth not just on the beginning of a new year, but
every single day of the year.
While celebrating the New Year with
friends last night I had many mixed
emotions. This was an amazing year with memories that I will never forget. The
Lord was pleased to abundantly bless the ministries at both Grace Baptist and
North Shore. He grew the youth group and provided for every need that we had.
The missions’ trip that I went on to the Dominican Republic was an incredible
blessing and so many people heard the Gospel for the first time ever! God was
so good. However, this was also an extremely difficult year because my Grandma
died. Many close friends moved away and I experienced confusion about where the
Lord was leading me in the future. BUT God was still faithful. During my time
of reflection I realized that every single part of this year, both the good and
the bad, was good. It wasn't good because it made me comfortable. It wasn't
good because I was happy all the time. It was good because God was faithful and
every single thing that He does brings glory to His name. As you start 2014
never forget who gets all the glory. Don't forget that in the good AND in the
bad He is still God, He is still good, and He is still glorified. Rest in
that.
"All Glory be to Christ" by King Kaleidoscope
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_wXkDuaRGI
