2017: Clarity

The word I've been seeing, hearing, sensing, and challenged by for 2017 is the word, "clarity."

World Magazine suggests giving
the gift of "Clarity" for 2017

It started popping up everywhere a few weeks ago. It seemed I couldn't get through a conversation or article without hearing that word spoken. In December, World Magazine chose that word - of all words - to be front and center on their sales wrap for an issue. Like.. give the gift of clarity for 2017. I was sent an article that spoke about the power and value of clarity. An email devotional referenced clarity as something important for the coming year. Yes. I believe it is.

That's a flickering image of what brought this word, circumstantially, to light. But what does this mean when our boots are on the trail?

The meaning of clarity for us this year is made more precise in a list of words that people I know have felt are significant; deliberate; diligent; unity; boldness; abundance; peace; redeemed; listen; and integrity. Each word carries it's own story and focus. As we move forward, I'll share more about what clarity means for life at the Outpost.

In addition to those words, there are passages of scripture and a picture that has meaning for this season. Second Corinthians chapter 5 recounts how Jesus came with a ministry of reconciliation and that ministry is for us as well. As Jesus' people, we have a ministry (read: we are to bring the gift of...) reconciliation. We are to be ambassadors for Jesus, drawing people back to the Father. Another passage is Psalm 91. Psalm 91 declares God's goodness, protection, and faithfulness in the midst of struggle. Psalm 91 tells us who God is... and invites us to join the original psalmist in making the same declarations.

Finally, a picture. A friend felt this impression put on his heart for this season. He saw a naval battle group in the ocean coming against a single naval re-supply ship of an opposing navy. The single ship cannot hope to stand against a battle group. We see this as a call to walking in greater unity - each person bringing their own gift for the benefit of the whole body. Every ship matters. Even the mighty battle group could not battle for long if there is no re-supply ship nearby!

This image of the navy is a lot like life at the Outpost. The Outpost would be a lonely, desolate, place... and definitely not a refuge if there were only one person living and working here. It takes a cohesive, committed, team to establish a place of refuge. It takes family.

Let's grow more clear together this year. Clear on who God is (Psalm 91); Clear on who we are (John 15:5 - I am the Vine, and you are the branches); Clear on what we are about (2 Cor. 5:16-21)


Not one should be lost...