There are pros and cons to a new year. One thing against it is that inevitable sense of aging that some of us feel. I don't feel older when I look in the mirror, though I should; I feel older when I look at my friends who are my age! When did they turn grey!? When did their hair fall out!? I feel older when I see something physical I really want to do, know how to do, and then discover that now that I am not 20-something, my muscles won't do it.
One thing in favor is the chance to begin some things again. So there is one thing I am doing; I am beginning to count visitors on this site again. It begins from zero. I installed a new counter. I have cleaned the slate. I have forgotten that which is behind, so to speak. [Oh, there are other things I am beginning again; but those are between me and the Lord.]
Some of those reading this had a lousy year. You messed up. You have been at the bottom of the pile, looking up and wondering if there is a way out. There is.
Some feel like a flock of pigeons flew over you and, before you could get out of range, they bombarded you with a vengeance. Before you knew it, you were unpleasant to be around. Like fighting with a skunk, you may win; but the stink stays around. And you are wondering if there is a way to get out from under that. There is.
It's the beginning of January. Begin again. God's mercies are new every single morning. He is ready to throw a big party for you, if you will "come home." Even if your "problems" are the result of someone else's wrath, vengeance, stupidity, hatred, carelessness--whatever, you can open the cage that binds you with the key of faith in the Lord Jesus. Jesus is ready to help you begin again.
It's time to start over.
