My highlighter-yellow hat bears the words Camp Eagle. Over the last ten years we have made a lot of memories there taking our kids there for Camp Tallowood. We will go again this summer. One great feature of the camp is the river that runs through it. The headwaters of the Nueces river stand close to the camp itself. The crystal clear water of the river gives life to the substantial wildlife in the area. Deer and antelope play on the mountains around the camp.
Today we find ourselves at the headwaters of a new year. 2016 starts right here and right now. How will we live this year? As always I start the new year with Psalm 1. Blessing and happiness reside in the ones who do not take our cue from the wicked, the sinners or the mockers.
But Christianity is not just about "thou shalt not" or "thou shalt," for that matter. We start with "Thou and I" relationship with God. Christ followers delight in the Lord and meditate on his law day and night. Have you ever read through the whole New Testament? You can join us in reading through, one chapter a day Monday through Friday for this year. We also offer plans for those who want to read through both the Old and New Testaments with us. But these devotionals will derive from the New Testament readings starting with Matthew 1 on Monday.
What do we hope will happen in this year? Psalm 1:3. We want to become like trees planted by the streams of water. We want to yield seasonal fruit with unwithering leaves. In our front yard are two holly trees which we planted at the same time. One stands in the sun and grows stronger by the day. The other has been overshadowed by a large water-oak for so long that it has virtually given up. The leaves wither and the red berries have fallen. If things don't change it will die. As I pull up in front of my house today, I see two clear options for 2016. I can live a life of intimate communion with God and live. Or I can wither away. Let's choose life, starting now.