At this time of the year, you might be wondering, “Where did the time go? Is 2022 coming to an end for real? Didn’t I just do X, Y, Z?” The next thing you know, you feel that strong urge to carve out some time, sit down, and write down your 2023 resolutions (that probably becomes an old memory by February). On the other hand, there are some of you who are indifferent with the idea of ‘new year, new me’ because your life always looks the same, if not has been looking worse than what the acceptable standard that you have in mind.
Before you jump too quickly to your new year resolutions or to decide to scrap them altogether, it is important to take a pause, look back, and remember “How has God been good and faithful to me this year?” The truth is, we, humans, are forgetful, especially when it comes to remembering God’s goodness and faithfulness. One example comes from the book of Exodus, when the Israelites started to grumble about not having food to eat after just being delivered out of slavery.
“He led you through the vast and dreadful wilderness, that thirsty and waterless land, with its venomous snakes and scorpions. He brought you water out of hard rock. He gave you manna to eat in the wilderness, something your ancestors had never known, to humble and test you so that in the end it might go well with you. You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.” – Deuteronomy 8:15-18 NIV
Similarly, we often forget the times when God helped us through our life challenges, when He answered our prayers, when He performed miracles.
Remembrance helps us to gain perspective, keeps us grounded, and prompts us to appreciate the gifts we have received. It also builds our character and faith, as well as reminds us of who God is and what He is capable of. Through all these, remembrance bears anticipation. It nurtures expectancy for the things unseen and hoped for (Heb 11:1). Therefore, remembrance is needed to recollect some of the moments in our lives that might have been overlooked and help us regain a clearer view of the path that God has prepared for us – His direction, power, and control over our lives.
The remembrance-anticipation exercise is meant to help you to intentionally think of the past and move toward long-term goals that you would like to see in the year to come. The remembrance-anticipation exercise consists of two main parts:
- Remembrance: List out the major moments throughout the past year on how God has been good to you
- Anticipation: Put down some of the short-term and long-term expectations for the upcoming year of how you would like to see your growth and relationship with God
Remember to take some time to pray before starting this exercise and ask God to reveal the moments you missed and those which are about to come. May it be a good time for you to end 2022 and start 2023 with God. Happy New Year!