What is that up ahead...I see? 

oh my, how the days flew by! 

looks like a New Year dawning shining bright...for me    

was it only 12 months ago we began a New Year, You and I?     

You prepared me for the storms...that I be not deterred… 

by that which You already conquered...when sown    

even before the outset… attentive and faithful You were

as we stepped into spaces…to me vast and unknown

Some paths were tedious and quite rough    

every step difficult...I often fell    

others were smooth and despite the harsh buff    

I experienced Your miraculous...quell   

Of course, tears have flowed and…it seems   

at times I've grown weary...ah, but not alone!    

for this heart shoved not away Your sweet esteem   

and Your joy has never flown!   

So, with only a few more hours before exiting this venue 

with the Old Year churning its last tricks    

I look back and even adore more...You    

who brought me through the briar and ticks 

Thank you, Almighty Jehovah God, as I did taste   

the sure and present hope of my eternal reward  

I've come this far because of Your Mercy, Your Grace

Your Love, unconditionally, spread broad 

It is by faith that I'll go on trusting You, Lord     

leaning hard- as we walk the pristine    

For I've come to understand from experience and sword   

most things encountered will not be what they seem

Alone in Your presence I'll worship You...filled   

as I’m fed with mana from above    

each day You'll encourage still

with truth from the Heavenly Dove

Against the things termed impossible...there  

for me You'll always stand   

though many will try to separate us with snare    

none will be able to pluck me out of Your hand   

Once again, You'll be my lawyer, healer, counselor

and relentless, dependable friend      

You …will keep my sanity stitched and regular   

all the way through and beyond...the end 

It is with great anticipation that I hold You tight      

as we proceed and stride      

for You, Jesus, are always right    

and totally in charge of this New Year’s ride 

I know not what's in store, but then...   

I don't need...or...want to know 

I'm satisfied You'll be at every bend

directing and guiding wherever we may go 

Hello, New Year...I see your beams     

and I know you clearly see me     

12 months from now when the last dust gleams      

He'll again...have given me victory 

You see, the Creator, who set this universe in place...

it's …He…that's my undefeated guide   

with His Banner Flying O'er Me I've already won this race

Because …I've Got The Prize!

  S of S 2:4, HAB 2:13, PHIL 3:14

copyright; jmsbell 12/28/2014