ANNUS horribilis: the horrible
year. That was 2016 apparently, given the amount of celebrities who died. Queen
Elizabeth II hailed 1992 as annus
horribilis.
2016 was personally my most
difficult year yet (eclipsing even 2003, and earlier 1984), and, I think
because of my recent experience, I’m sensitive to those who have had a
lamentable 2017. I’ve heard a few people say their 2017 has been an annus horribilis.
How has 2017 treated you?
Perhaps it was a year where great
change was thrust upon you, where one massive life change brought with it a ripple
of uncertainty. Maybe the year consolidated the perception within you of
disappointment and heartache. Possibly the year was great; hopes were exceeded,
and a breakthrough moment came to define your life. Perhaps there wasn’t
anything to write home about — though I doubt it.
Years are a neat way of
categorising our time on earth. Life is short, yet the years are long, which is
a paradox that the mysteries of life never quite explain.
If 2017 was an especially tough
year, what did you learn, and what are you going to do about it in 2018? Could
it be that notwithstanding how tough the year’s been, God has equipped you with
confidence because He has shown you your endurance?
Will next year bear any fruit from
what was sown this year? I know my 2017 did not realise some of the hopes I had
even for 2016, yet I know unequivocally that I’m on a good path. I’m yet
reminded of those heroes of the faith in Hebrews chapter 11 who, though they
were faithful, died before the Promise was realised in their lives (verse 13).
Now is the time to take a moment to
reflect over poignant questions. Now is the time to make peace with the past so
we may look forward with hope for a joyous present and future.
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