12-12-12

There is a lot of hype surrounding today, and understandably so. Today is the last day in our lives (and probably the lives of our children) that we we will see a sequential date: 12-12-12. And that's exciting to us. Really, though, does it matter? Probably not.

If you're like me, you don't believe in luck. You believe in blessings from God Almighty, as all good and perfect things come from Him (James 1:17). And so, instead of basing your attitude about today on a sequence of numbers, meditate on another 12-12 with me.

Romans 12 has always been an inspiring section of scripture to me. To begin with, the apostle Paul urges the Romans to be a living sacrifice--not conformed to the world, but transformed...a perfect picture of living a holy and sanctified life. As the chapter continues, we are introduced to a segment that is generally referred to as a guide on how to behave as a Christian. It is within that context that we read the following:

"rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer." (Romans 12:12)

On this twelfth day of the twelfth month in the twelfth year of this century, why not practice the things that Romans 12:12 urges us to do.

1: Rejoice in hope - Biblical hope isn't the same as worldly hope. Biblical hope is an expectation, not simply a wish. And so, because of all of the things God has promised to those who love Him and are faithful to Him, we can rejoice in our hope of heaven...in our expectation of heaven. We don't have to live in doubt, wondering what will happen to us when we die. We can rejoice and have confidence that we and our loved ones who are living faithfully will all be in heaven when this earth is no more.

On this day of superstition and luck (and in the coming days with the Mayan calendar mumbo jumbo), remember that our eternal destiny is already known by our Father, and that His promise of heaven has already been given. It does not take luck to get into heaven--it takes obedience to God's word.

2: Be patient in tribulation - Perhaps this point is even more relevant around the holiday season. Sometimes family gatherings can be hectic and chaotic and stressful. Other people tend to be stressed, which can then lead to negative encounters while shopping, driving, and even assembling to worship! Though it is the season to get stressed out, try your best to refrain from such. Know that in whatever trial or pitfall you find yourself in that the God of all comfort is there with you. Mediate on such passages like 1 Corinthians 10:13 and Hebrews 13:5. Know that God is bigger and stronger than anything that could ever come your way, and in Him we have strength and a peace that passes all understanding (Phil. 4:7).

But also know that your attitude makes all the difference. Sometimes we don't think of attitudes as sinful, but they can be. Instead of flying off the handle because you've had a bad day or letting your lips flap because someone has gotten under your skin (am I the only one who struggles with this daily!?), remember whose you are and how Christ reacted when placed under extreme stress and tribulation. Did He lash out at the crowd crying "crucify Him!" or respond when those soldiers beat Him and spat on Him? No day you have ever had will be that bad, so remember to practice some patience.

3: Continue steadfastly in prayer - Every day of our lives should involve prayer. Our God has done so much for us, and we fail Him so often. Remember to go to Him and thank Him for the time that you've been given, for the people who have blessed your life, and for the physical wealth you have been given in abundance. Our Father is such a liberal giver, and we all have so much to be thankful for.

While the rest of the world is making a wish at 12:12 on 12-12-12, why not say a prayer and thank God for all the marvelous blessings He has sent your way? And, because He has given so much, make a special effort to be a blessing in someone else's life today. Pray that God will give you an opportunity to serve, or to simply make someone's day brighter.