Redeemed: bought back. Holy: set apart for a purpose.
Redemption and holiness may appear to be an odd pairing for January themes, but they both speak to the resolutions and the time of renewal of purpose that come with a new year.
A redeemed person is clear about his/her identity. She realizes that her life is not her own – it is a gift from her heavenly Father to be lived to his glory. She was bought at a price and is now an adopted daughter of the King.
A holy person is clear about his/her purpose. She recognizes that the world and its ways hold no value – she has been set apart from all that it hinders and distorts. God brings definition and purpose to her life, guided by the Holy Spirit.
A holy redeemed daughter of the King keeps her focus clear. As the song goes, “This world is not my home.” And as Paul says in II Corinthians 4:18, “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” If I look to the things of this world, I am filled with frustrations, worries, and burdens. By keeping my eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith, I am filled with faith, hope, and love.
I have never been big on New Year’s resolutions. However, I have established a few goals and priorities that help me remain clear in my identity, purpose, and focus:
· Daily time in the Word
· Constant communication with God through prayer
· Keep the main thing the main thing: I am a daughter of the King, called according to his purpose. With that identity, purpose, and focus clarified, I will see things from an eternal perspective and trust in God who is bigger than any circumstances.
How will you remain clear in your identity, purpose, and focus for 2015?
Verses for additional reflection: Hebrews 12:1-3, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 14:1-4, II Corinthians 5:7