2020 - 20/20 Vision

As we near the end of 2019, I can’t help but reflect back on what an incredibly blessed year it has been for our family. Everyone has had really special things going on this year and I am so grateful to God for these blessings in all of our lives.

As we look ahead to 2020, the start of the year is always a great time to refocus on the things that are truly important to each of us. This year is quite unique in that is it 2020 - 20/20 vision. We will be the only generations in history that live through the year 2020 (God willing.) What a great opportunity to have that daily reminder this year to live with 20/20 vision, clarity and focus in our lives.

Helen Keller famously said, “The only thing that is worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.”

We probably all recognize that having a clear “vision” for our lives is important but it may be something that you haven’t put much thought into. I believe that without it, we run the risk living lives that might be somewhat reactive and ride the currents of culture. On the other hand, a clear vision helps provide clarity and focus for us as we seek God’s will each day.

Proverbs 16:9 A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.

1) Vision gives us a glimpse of “not what is, but what could be.”

Having a vision for our lives gives us an opportunity to dream and to create a roadmap for the direction that we want our lives to take. It has been said that “we are limited not by our abilities but by our vision.”

2) Vision for our tomorrows produces passion for today.

This doesn’t mean that we live for tomorrow or are constantly preoccupied with our future, but it gives us a passion that fuels and orders our steps for today.

3) Vision helps to keep us to keep moving when we encounter obstacles

Just because we have a clear vision for where we may be headed in life, it doesn’t mean that we won’t face challenges. However, the “clearer our vision,” the more committed that we will be to it as we persevere through them.

4) Vision provides clarity and focus.

This world creates a lot of “noise” that is easily distracting. It’s easy to get swept up in cultural waves that are widely accepted but may be inconsistent with our vision for ourselves and our families. We have to be willing to go against the current sometimes and the stronger our vision, the better our filter will be in weeding these things out.

5) A Christian worldview will shape and refine our vision during our lives.

C.S. Lewis frames this best with these words:

“I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen, not only because I see it but because by it, I can see everything else.”

Take some time think about your vision for this year and beyond and write it down. Then ask yourself a couple of questions - Am I doing the right things today that will enable me to fulfill my vision for the future? What changes do I need to make to do so?

I wish each of you all of God’s blessings for 2020!

Happy New Year,

Big E