‘A new start…every day’
January 2010
When we wake up on January 1st, the world will, no doubt, look very much the same. We will still have many of the problems which we have had to face as a world, and as individuals, the previous day. The fact that we will be beginning a new year doesn't suddenly cancel out those things. They stubbornly remain, just to remind us that January 1st is simply another day, like any other.
And yet there is something much deeper about that particular day which many of us tend to appreciate. A new year often means an opportunity for reflection, for adjustment and for a new start, with ourselves, with each other and with God.
Some may use the opportunity to start a new diet and commit themselves to a healthier lifestyle. Some may choose this new year to propose and marry. Others may decide to expand their family. Some may opt for a fresh start in a new job or career. Some may choose this year to return to God.
A new year gives us that opportunity to look back on the previous year, to give thanks for the good moments, the joyful occasions, the celebrations, the times of great blessing. We're also able to reflect on the painful times, the times of sadness and loss and the way in which we have been supported by family and friends and by God. It's only when we look back on these difficult periods of our life that we often see that they have also been times of growth because of the way in which God has been there with us; "For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Cor 12:10).
After reflecting on what has been, we can then look ahead and what is to come during the next year, some of which we will be able to plan and expect, (like the diet which may last until the beginning of February!) most of which will be totally unexpected and come as a great surprise and be a time of great joy, but some of which will most certainly be unwanted and unwelcome.
However a new start is not only available to us once a year on January 1st. We can start anew with God each week and each day and every minute of every day, because our forgiving, loving God promises renewal, regeneration and the chance to start again to all those who come to him.
It's so important to have those times when we can let things down, reflect on what has happened and dedicate ourselves anew and start again - every day!
And the one sitting on the throne said, "Look, I am making all things new". (Revelation 21:5).
With every blessing for 2010. Paul
© Copyright Hatfield Church / Tim Sweed 2008