As I turn the pages of my old school Bible to Luke 9:57-62, I am struck by the immediacy of Jesus’ call to follow Him. It’s a message that resonates deeply with me: the call to move forward, to not look back but to set our sights ahead.
The famous Dutch painter, Vincent van Gogh, was fascinated by Jesus’ parable of the sower. His 1888 painting (above) reflects the act of sowing as a metaphor for spreading the Gospel. His imagery aligns with the idea of looking ahead to the fruits that future actions will bring. While the sun sets on the past, the sower demonstrates the forward-looking perspective of new beginnings in the seeds he plants. The painting seems to hint at Jesus’ words, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62).
In our walk with God, we often face the temptation to look back, to hold onto the familiar, or to dwell on past sins and defeats. But the scripture is clear, as Jesus said to His disciples, those who look back aren’t ready for what’s to come in the Kingdom of God. I am reminded of Lot’s wife, who, despite the warning, looked back and became a pillar of salt – an eternal symbol of the cost of hesitation and disobedience.
Yet, as a new year beckons, it’s natural to reflect on the paths we’ve trod. While reflection is a part of growth, obsessing over what was can tether us to the past. We must discern between healthy reflection and unhealthy fixation. The wisdom of baseball legend, Satchel Paige, aligns with this. Paige’s story transcends his athleticism; he played during a time when African Americans were barred from Major League Baseball, confining them to segregated leagues. Despite this, his skill was undeniable, his fastball legendary. Paige’s wisdom resonated with a simple yet profound philosophy: “Don’t look back. Something might be gaining on you.” This sentiment mirrored the biblical principle of focusing on the path God has set before us, rather than being hindered by the past. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of looking forward, a narrative that deeply informs our understanding of faith and the pursuit of our God-given destinies.
I’ve come to understand the liberating power of forgiveness, both divine and interpersonal. We must embrace the fullness of Christ’s forgiveness, which not only absolves but also cleanses. This New Year, I encourage you to release the grip of past sins; they were paid for at a high price.
As a pastor, I’ve witnessed the shadows that defeats cast over lives. It’s my deep conviction that we should not let the defeats define us. Remember, even in missteps, there’s a divine hand guiding us back to the path. We are called to rise from our stumbles and continue the journey forward.
Looking back with a longing for the “good old days” can distort the reality of the present and rob us of our potential. The Israelites, freed from Egypt, lamented their past comforts even amidst their oppression. Let’s not fall into the same trap of idolizing the past at the expense of the present.
Moreover, holding onto old conflicts can sow bitterness in our hearts. Forgiveness is the only way through which we can truly move forward. It’s time to let go of the weights that slow us down, as the writer of Hebrews urges, and run our race with perseverance.
Service, prayer, and study are the pillars of a faith lived in action. This year, I call upon us all to engage deeply in these practices. As I look forward to what lies ahead, my resolve is to keep my eyes on Jesus, the author, and finisher of our faith. I invite you to join me in this commitment to not look back but to reach forth unto those things which are before, pressing toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).
Let’s enter this New Year not as spectators of faith but as active participants in the unfolding story of God’s love and purpose for us. Together, let’s make 2024 a year of spiritual growth, service, and heartfelt worship.