A "Better Year" ??

Looking for "a better year than last year" makes me wonder: Do we REALLY understand the purpose for which we are here? As Christians, do we not understand that our very purpose for being here is to be conformed to the likeness of Christ? Do we not recognize that those very things we suffer are bringing us jewels for His crown? If we would partake of His glory, we must also partake of His suffering. "Looking for a better year" makes me realize that I was not in the enjoyment of every moment that God gave me, that I was not looking for the return of my Savior, that I was not embracing that which was bringing glory to God. It makes me realize how selfish and earthly I really am. Because I want something better (here) than I had. It also makes me stop and reflect, that in the last days, God declared that it is going to get worse. So, I'm thinking, I do not expect this year to be better than last year was. What I am hoping, is that in all of the distresses, disappointments, pain and suffering, we may each one embrace what God has entrusted to us to bear for His glory, and that we may recognize that each moment brings the Lord's return that much closer. Who knows, my beloved friends, brothers and sisters in the Lord Jesus Christ, it may be THE day in 2012 and just at such time as we are in the very midst of a very trying circumstance, that our precious Lord Jesus Christ will come at that very moment; that the Father will say, (so-to-speak) "Ok, my Son, it is enough. Bring my other sons and daughters Home to my glory. It is time for You to receive Your joy that I set before You at the cross. Bring them Home!"

Who knows, after all, that this could be "the best year of our lives"!!!!!!!