I watched history last night. Deb and I attended the Dallas Mavericks versus Minnesota Timberwolves basketball game at the American Airlines Center. Both of us are big fans of the MAVS so we enjoyed this night to remember. Dirk, Jet, Kidd and the boys were down 29 points two minutes into the 3rd quarter. So…it looked like the game was over, a disappointing end to 2008. Then it happened. The MAVS caught fire and began dominating the game. History was made when the deficit was overcome and the team pulled out its largest comeback win ever.So I’m thinking, on this last day of the year, that a comeback is on the way for this New Year. I know it seems unlikely if you read the reports and listen to the news media. Everybody loves a comeback. They are exciting and rewarding. Fighting through and overcoming adversity builds character and strengthens confidence. So, I am believing God for victory in 2009. If you are a follower of Jesus, you are more than a conqueror. Romans 8:37 says: "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."
Christians live in the confident hope that, though life can be hard – God is good and always working positively, creatively and constructively in our lives. The new year means new dreams, new possibilities and new hopes. It is a time to renew our faith, rededicate our lives, and revive our spirits.
The nation needs a comeback.
The church in America needs a comeback.
You need a comeback.
So let’s make history instead of watching it. Choose to be a part of what God will do in the lives of people who seek Him. I am praying God will move powerfully in us, and 2009 will be our greatest year. Hey, after a long layoff, even the blog is back. I look forward to communicating with you throughout the days ahead. Happy New Year!
5 comments:
I just read your blog-"comeback". I got "pumped up" in the spirit and thought I would comment on your great blog. I've spent a lot of this day reflecting back on 2008. I spent 4 days in the hospital in January, from burn-out in my hometown of Paducah, Ky. For 7 years I took care of my father who has alzheimers; ran a landscape business with my son; and did everything but preach the sunday sermons at my church. Most of 2008 for me has been a year of rehabilatation-physically, mentally, and spiritually. I am definitly looking forward to 2009 as a year for a comeback for me. My greatest desire is to be all that God wants me to be until I draw that last breath. By the way, in May I moved 650 miles to Dallas and joined up with the greatest church with the greatest pastor in the world-Prestonwood Baptist. I'm humbled to be a part of this great church. I'm plugged in with Celebrate Recovery at Prestonwood, and after completing the steps, I want to start a support group for christians with a diagnosed mental illness. At age 19 I was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Doctors, medicine, good food, excercise, counseling, etc. are all good, but the main thing that's held me together is Jesus Christ, the word of God, church, and the support of my family and christian friends...It's 11:30 PM, 12/31/08. In 30 minutes, let's start that comeback. Bless you Pastor Jack...you're in my prayers....Larry Griffith
I just got home from big church and wanted to check out your blog. Love it. We do need a comeback, especially from the hard times. People seem so complacent and hopeless and it breaks my heart. I am committed to lifting and loving people and letting God do his Holy Business though me. People need to understand the power, comfort and peace that is available in Christ. Thank you, Jack, for your leadership and for sharing God's word with so many. I am convicted to do more in 2009. Happy New Year!
I learned last night that "Jack's blog is back"! We missed your observations and commentary, as well as the opportunity to respond.
2009 is already shaping up to be a comeback year. I pray that all of us will gain clarity on God's desire for our lives, and we can use that bring the comeback to life.
I sure need a comeback!
Brother Jack,
You nailed it! Why don't we "believe God for victory in 2009?" Comebacks ARE awesome and the greatest "comeback" will be that of our Lord Jesus Christ. If we truely believe that our citizenship is in heaven and that He is coming back, the way we live our lifes should reflect our beliefs. My New Year's Resolution for 2009 is that my everyday life would reflect Jesus and that, as never before, my spoken witness of Him to others would be bold, consistant and unwavering. Know that I pray for you regularly.
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