I'm not sure what great philosopher, after spending many days hidden away in a cave pondering the meaning of life, said upon exiting the 'think tank', "...there's nothing new under the sun"...
His analyses agree with (Ecclesiastes 1:9-14 NIV) What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun...!!!
I, probably like many of you reading this, was rather glad to see 2009 become history and the new year, 2010, open its welcoming doors to all...BUT...
Upon further reflection, 2009 left us much for which to be thankful...spiritually, financially, materially, etc...
Yes, the last several years have brought about much pain in our country, witnessing rising unemployment, continuing underemployment, loss of great wealth and capital, failing companies, loss of homes and possessions, rising costs of food, fuel, and cost of living...just to name a few...
But...we're still citizens enjoying many of the freedoms God intended...
Terrorism may increase, abortion may continue to be legal, and politicians fighting for power and control may be the norm of the day, but God, the Creator of the Universe and the One who has given each of the trillions of stars in the billions of galaxies their name, still reigns...( Psalm 147:4 tells us that "He counts the number of the stars, He calls them all by name." )
Yes, wealth may continue to decrease, poverty may continue to increase, and men and women may 
continue to reject Him, but nevertheless He is our God and cares for us...
Even if that were the only reason to thank Him that would be sufficient ( Psalm 19:1 says that "the heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork." ) ...BUT...
Look around you, retreat to your cave if you must, but realize with even a mustard seed size of faith that God is still in control and His grace abounds and is being poured out to all who will to receive it...
Happy New Year to all people of good will on earth...!!!
