Hopeful New Year

As we start a New Year we take our first faltering steps into the early hours of yet another twelve months; and we wonder what they will bring as we look back on the last year which has just ended. 

What kind of emotions do we bring with us into this New Year? Fears, concerns and worries about unfinished business or the left-overs which come with us from 2022? 

What exactly is our frame of mind when the partying is over and we sober up to the reality that time moves on; and its measure is only an artificial yardstick invented by man to mark various milestones in human history? 

I suggest that our mindset from this moment onwards should be one of Hope.

No matter what happened in the past. No matter where we are in life right now. No matter what else needs to be done or left undone. What is most important, vital even, is that we look forward with Hope.

We are right now where God wants us to be. 

And as we move forward it is incumbent upon us to demonstrate this Hope in our hearts by our demeanour and attitude.

Often, I meet Christians with a face like a mile of bad road. They look miserable and are hardly a good advert for the Faith and Trust we should have in our God.

Someone once said that the main problem with Christianity is Christians. I don't know who it was ... perhaps it was me.

Seriously though, if we truly trust in God, and we believe that He loves us and has our best interest at heart, and will always care for us; should we not demonstrate that belief with Hope for ourselves and for others?

It is not always easy. Many amongst us have real and serious problems in their lives and cannot always radiate Hope. To them, we offer practical help and encouragement where we can and prayers at all times.

As for the rest of us, let us all resolve that this New Year we will make it our aim to project Hope, Faith and Trust in our Lord.

God bless.