(This post was written by Michael Wallace, High School Pastor)

As we wrap up 2010 this week, it seems appropriate to say something to the extent of “time flies.”  While the truth of this statement is always consistent, I sense that we all feel the impact more around major holidays and celebrations.  In this season of reflection, I am reminded of the way our past can shape our future. 

In September of 2001 America went through a monumental event that changed the way we look at air travel and security forever.  Strangely, this spring’s graduating high school class was only starting 3^rd grade when 9/11 happened.  They will be voting, working in and influencing a culture that is vastly different than ten years earlier.  But many have little recollection of the moment that has steered many recent cultural and political shifts.

Recognizing the impact of the past is vital to navigating your path for the future.  I love how the author of Hebrews calls us to remember the faith of the spiritual giants of Biblical history.  In Hebrews 11:1-2 the author writes “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.”  Each “ancient” is recalled for their faith…Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, etc. But the point is not what happened in the past.  The point is that God has been faithful.  They didn’t know how He was going to work out His plan, but they had faith that He would do it.

We are now just hours away from a brand new year.  In this year you will be challenged.  You will face things that you aren’t prepared for.  You will, at times, feel that God is not with you.  And you will be tempted to doubt.  Remember the past.  He has been faithful.  And He will continue to be faithful. 

Happy New Year!