Every step throughout 2020 seemed to require a pivot. Change, pressure and adversity became a common occurrence for all of us. But, as we consider what lies ahead in 2021, let’s remember that with every breath and every endeavor, we will bring attention to the source of our faith and to the depth of our gratitude.
I reflect on a message my wife Kelli shared as she compared the frames we see before our eyes daily to the way in which we frame our thoughts. How we choose to frame life can enable us to approach even the toughest seasons with thanksgiving. Think of the frames we have used for thousands of years. The rigid structures that surround or enclose something to which we want to draw attention. We all have them in our homes and on our desks. We frame words because we want to be reminded of the confidence or encouragement they provide. We frame family photos because the people in them are precious to us and we desire to keep the memories close. We frame artwork because we appreciate its beauty. We see frames around bulletin boards or signage highlighting important information and declarations. In Egyptian tombs, frames were found as they were used to validate something on the inside. Frames force us to focus on the main thing, highlighting the value of what’s within.
In this way, we have the ability to frame our minds, which will influence our attitude and our behaviors. In 2021, will we frame faith or fear? In Matthew 16:16, Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. Then in Matthew 16:21-22, we see how Peter rebuked Jesus as He told His disciples how the Gospel would be fulfilled. Scripture says, “From that time on Jesus began to explain to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that He must be killed and on the third day be raised to life. Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. ‘Never, Lord!’ he said. ‘This shall never happen to You!’” As we all have been at one point or another, Peter was fearful, lacked understanding and was focused on his own desires. And, in verse 23, Jesus very boldly tells Peter that he is framing the wrong thing.
As we journey through 2021, let’s consider the walls of our minds and the frames that hang there.
Will we frame it with faith that Jesus is who He says He is? He’s the Living Word, the Bread of Life, the Lamb, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Everlasting Father, the One who meets every need.
Or will we frame fear?
May our renewed focus frame the only One worthy, the Perfecter of our faith.
With fresh perspective and urgency, Big Oak will run toward new endeavors to relieve the suffering of abused, abandoned and neglected children so that we can point them to the true Source of where hope comes from. We ask that you join us in this effort. Let’s reject the fear 2020 brought with it and choose to embrace the faith this new year will require.
