A New Year

A NEW YEAR

The changing of one year to the next always brings an array of emotions. For some, the switch brings closure to a season of stress, disappointment or tragedy and a desire for a brighter future. For others, a celebration ensues as a happy time is remembered with the expectation of more to come. One common thread woven through the yearly change-over is reflection and renewal.

Reflecting on the previous year gives an opportunity for inventory of events, relationships, regrets, treasured moments, and areas for improvement. We cannot change the past, but we can learn from it. We can appreciate the wonders, accept our circumstances, laugh at blunders, and be grateful for every one of the 525,600 minutes (7.5 million breaths) that we were given over the past year. Take a good, long look at auld lang syne.

A new year brings a chance to renew and refresh after a year that may have brought hard times, heartache, and trials. In these times, we can take a new, long breath of fresh air… breath in and fill our lungs with hope. Then, we must exhale and expel any negativity, hatred, and frustration that can breed into a cancerous attitude that will spread into the new year. The new year gives an opportunity for refocus of energy, realignment of priorities, and redirection of our intentions.

As we reflect on the year past and renew ourselves in the new year, let us not forget that our hope is found in Christ. Our orchestrated song is played perfectly by the Composer Himself. Our mission is already set by our sovereign God. Our purpose, meaning, fulfilment, and reason for living is made evident when we draw closer to the One who created us.

H – Have a heart occupied by Christ
A – Always look for God at work
P – Passionately do what you do
P – Pick someone to be a blessing to
Y – Yearn for closer relationships

N – Never say never (Luke 1:37)
E – Embrace your circumstances
W – Win others to the Lord

Y – Yield to the voice of the Holy Spirit
E – Enjoy the little things of life
A – Abstain from complaining
R – Remember, you are loved