Barnabas File

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. . . . For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,  Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:2, 6, NIV)   Although the end of one year and the beginning of another may be as simple as turning a calendar page, the symbolic move from one calendar year to another has significant impact on all of us.  At this time of the year, we look back to evaluate where we have been, but we also look forward to where we are going.   Looking back   As we look back, we celebrate victories, give thanks for our blessings, and learn from our failures.  I am thankful for the wonderful times with family this year–shared experiences and just doing life together.  I am grateful for my faith community that provides times of fellowsh...

Memo to self at the beginning of a new year: This is going to be a good year.  You have just come through a period of both rejoicing and reflection, but it is time to move on.  If you want the new year to be good, even great, I suggest you do the following: First, take care of yourself.  This means that you are going to have to exercise, see your doctor and chiropractor on a regular basis, take your medications, get enough sleep, and eat right.  I know that doesn’t sound too exciting, but we know what happens when you don’t, right? Second, love your family and friends.  These are the people that God has placed into your life to both encourage and challenge you.  They have an investment in you and you in them.  Take it seriously and enjoy the present. Third, be intentional about personal and professional growth.  Although you may have good intentions, “sharpening the ax” does not happen without commitme...