Finding Contentment in the New Year (and not letting the green grass fool you)

Finding Contentment in the New Year 

by Linsey Driskill

During my family’s road trips, we have read numerous entertaining church slogans such as “God answers knee-mail,” and “Forecast for tomorrow: God reigns and the Son shines.” I recently saw one that resonated with me: “Don’t let the green grass fool you.”

What’s the green grass in your life? What is it that you long for, but don’t have? What are your hopes for the upcoming year?

We all have something. Something we wish we had. It’s settling to know everyone deals with this and that Jesus addressed it for this very reason.  The truth is, even if you did get your green grass, it wouldn’t satisfy. You would then long for something greater. Don’t let the green grass fool you.

The better question is what happens to us when we pine after our green grass? It corrodes our hearts and chips away at our relationships, leading to empty life.

It’s easy to be swayed into thinking that temporal things will satisfy us.

In the Luke 12 parable, the “rich fool” wanted more and more, but was never satisfied. “God said to [the rich man], ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God.”

How can we pursue contentment in the New Year instead of pining after “green grass?” Some practical ways are spending time with Jesus in prayer, reading his words, serving others, and giving thanks. Then, the deception of “green grass” will fade and that longing will lessen. Moving closer to contentment is a daily process, but as we do, joy and peace will become a fountain within us and lead us to the full life Jesus talks about.

Jesus follows up the parable about the rich fool with powerful words: “Do not worry… But seek His kingdom. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” What are you seeking? Where’s your treasure? That is right where your heart will be also.

Don’t let the green grass fool you.

It’s not that green after all. Let’s find contentment with the grass that lies under our feet. Let’s shift our perspective, serve, give thanks, and seek his kingdom. Jesus’ greatest blessing is his presence, and I pray that his presence would be your fountain of life in the New Year!