I've never been one to write down resolutions for any new year. To me, that just seems to be an invitation for things to go wrong. But as each new year approaches, I often feel hopefulness welling up inside me. A chance to start over, to begin again, something God affords Christians most graciously.
I love the month of January. I have for as long as I can remember. Perhaps because I was born in January, I decided to make the best of what some refer to as the worst month of the year. But perhaps there’s another reason, a better reason.
January is a new beginning. All the crazy hustle and bustle of the holiday season has quieted down, packed away for another year. Schedules are suddenly less crammed with everything we think we must accomplish. Dispositions are calmer, less prone to the extremes that only a few weeks ago would have been far different. Rooms have been cleared of the beautiful clutter that, after a time, seemed to stifle. One can almost hear an audible sigh of relief. Aaaahhhh. January is here. We can relax a little now. Now we have a little more time.
More time? New time? Second chances? Yes, all these things - and more - are possible in January, a month that heralds in all other months, each one full of new possibilities. January is God’s promise that He hasn’t given up on us; won’t give up on us – ever. He allows us to try again, and He’s with us – once again – come January.
There are those who say January is a cold, bleak month. Certainly our recent weather attests to that. But look further, deeper. Life is burgeoning just under the surface; gathering strength, replenishing reserves before a renewed burst of growth come Spring.
The Christ Child, born in December, comes alive in January - growing, becoming wiser, learning. All too soon Lent will be upon us. But for now, we have January. All is well.
Rest – in Him. Gain peace – in Him. Breathe – in Him. Live – in Him.
For His Sake. Amen.
Jan Fursdon
