The end of an event is called Closure. Typically, before one experiences Closure, there are the other three phases: Beginning, Developing and Maturing. When I was editing Sunday school curriculum, these four phases were highlighted enabling a teacher to monitor how students were learning in the session. And when one gets to the end, there’s the Closing or Closure when the teacher summarizes what occurred and emphasizes new learning.
Before I knew what is Closure, I always seemed to have a particular liking for it. Perhaps I was impatient and ready to move on. But in reflection, I discovered that I thrived in Closure! I realized God endowed me with the ability to see how everything comes together in the end.
As pastor, I loved writing my annual report and giving the State of the Church Report at the annual meeting. After prospective new members have given their testimonies, I would connect the salient points of each testimony to reflect God’s calling to all of us. At our church’s summer youth camp, I would do the nightly closing outside on the deck under the stars to weave the tapestry of the day and bid the campers goodnight. And in funerals, I connected one’s life as an integral part of God’s overall plan.
This gift of seeing the integration of life is actually the only true gift in which I have been blessed. I know because I can’t stop myself from always doing it. Our granddaughter Story said that I can turn anything into a sermon! I see how everything under heaven comes together according to God’s plan!
The entire world can’t wait to close out 2020 with the hope that 2021 will be better. I hope so too. However, as 2020 comes to an end, the 4 parts of Closure help me to “Let go” of what has been; “Own up” to what I may have done; “Clear away” the last 12 months so that I would be better prepared for 2021; and finally, “Celebrate” what 2020 was. For surely even with all the troubles we have encountered, God is still with us yesterday, today and tomorrow!
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23) As we close out 2020, I hope you discover your special gift as I have because 2021 is ready for you!