Finishing my reading plan for the year always comes with a sense of satisfaction. Maybe this year more than some others because it was been one of the few consistent things about 2020. So much turmoil, uncertainty, and disappointment in 2020. But the word of God is true, steadfast, and never fails to provide equilibrium.

So, as I chew on my final four readings in this year’s plan, here’s what’s lingering:

“They shall be mine, says the LORD of hosts, in the day when I make up my treasured possession . . ”

(Malachi 4:17:a ESV)

The prophets can be brutal, but God’s purpose is always redemptive. He wants a people. He will love on that people. He will sacrifice for that people. He will contend for that people. He will discipline that people so that they might return to Him to be His people. And we will be His. A day coming when He takes us to Himself as His treasured possession. Me? Part of the Creator’s treasured possession? I’m thinkin’ . . . Amazing love! How can it be?

When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” Jesus said to him, “If it is My will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!”

(John 21:21-22 ESV)

It’s easy to fall into the trap of wanting someone else’s story. Not just because the grass always looks greener on the other side, but because sometimes it actually IS greener. But Jesus says, “What is that to you? You follow Me!” He is the Author of our story. In His book, before we ever were, He penned the days formed for us (Ps. 139:16)– days formed for His glory. We’re His workmanship, clay in the potter’s hand, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which He prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them (Eph. 2:10). No sense looking around at others. Turn your eyes upon Jesus. And follow Him.

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!

(Revelation 22:20 ESV)

Coming soon . . . to a planet near you. And we will see His face. The face of the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end (22:13). The face of the Root and the Descendant of David, the Bright Morning Star (22:16b). Until then, we faithfully keep on keepin’ on.

And, until He comes, we come. Come, you who are thirsty and take the water of life freely given without price (22:17). Come, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and He will give you rest — rest for your souls f(Matt. 11:28-30).

Until You come, we’ll come. Even so, Lord Jesus, come!

Then Job answered the LORD and said: “I know that You can do all things . . .”

(Job 42:1-2a ESV)

That’s how Job wrapped us his 2020 journaling. Lot of troublesome times in his rearview mirror. Not many answers. But God made Himself known. Had shown Himself faithful, and just, and powerful, and able. And Job knew afresh, “You can do all things.” His grace sufficient. His promises true. His coming again sure.

Gonna take a break and change up the morning routine for the rest of this week. Anticipate starting back in on “the plan” next week, Lord willing.

Merry Christmas.

O come let us adore Him.

By His grace. For His glory.