Whether the year now past was full of joy or pain, change or stability, health or sickness, life or death, taking time to look back and consider the ways life events are shaping us—consciously or subconsciously—can be a healthy exercise. After all, what good is struggling through difficult life circumstances, or rejoicing in times of God’s incredible blessing, if these times are quickly forgotten.

In the Old Testament, we read that God commands the Israelites to remember how he led them through the 40 years in the desert, to test them and know what was in their hearts. In Deuteronomy 8 we learn that commands them to remember how he caused them to hunger, and then provided for them with manna to teach them that man does not live on bread alone. Later in the passage, the Israelites are told not to forget all that God has done for them, especially in times of wealth and success.

At the Last Supper, Jesus clearly reminds the apostles to specifically remember him when taking communion. I don’t think he was just asking them to remember that they knew him, or remember what he looked like. Jesus was commanding them to purposefully reflect on the way he lived, and the way knowing him changed their lives, and the way they could point back to how their lives were different due to Christ’s influence.

In this same way, we can all use reflection on the past to illuminate for others the way God is shaping us and molding us through positive and negative life events. And the start of the new year always seems like a great time to do just that.

If I had to summarize what I think God has been asking me to learn through remembering 2007, I’d say he has been pushing me, and my family, toward more and more dependence on him in many areas of life.

Throughout the past year, we have had a few health scares and a few physical afflictions that have been beyond our control. Looking back, we realize it was only through drawing closer to God and humbling ourselves that we were able to remain relatively calm. And we are still learning to ask God, and then actively trust in Him, for resolution to ongoing health problems.

One of the more painful events in our lives this past year was the burglary of our home. No one was physically hurt, including our dog Mason. But anyone who has ever been through a home invasion or robbery can testify that the emotional scars do not go away very quickly—even if you get all your stuff back.

Through this saga, God has taught us to care less about things and be more dependent on his protection and provision. Things can disappear, but our treasures in heaven are stored up where thieves cannot break in and steal (Matthew 6:20). And God has provided us with some amazing, close Christian friends who have been there for us as we continue to seek healing.

We also lost a dear friend to cancer in 2007. Reflecting on all the time spent with our friend over the past few years, too much was learned to include in this small space. He was a man of great wisdom, humility and sweet humor.

Perhaps the most poignant things God used our friend to teach us are to live in hope, to be aware of the kingdom coming and present, to appreciate the fullness of life and all of its mystery, to be open to new ideas, and to love people realistically and unconditionally. He will be missed, but he will not be forgotten.