Sunday, December 26, 2010

A Fresh Start

“And he who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new!” (Revelation 21:5).

The New Year always brings high hopes and dreams. I must admit, however, that I am pretty cynical when it comes to New Year resolutions. Let’s face it…most of us make these resolutions and then give up on them in a matter of weeks. I hear that exercise gyms are absolutely packed in the month of January as people renew their commitment to fitness. Yet, by the end of February the gyms drop back to their normal attendance.

While I am a cynic about resolutions, I appreciate that the New Year gives us the opportunity for a fresh start. God is the God of second chances…who wants to make all things new. He promises us: a new heart (Ezekiel 36:2), a new birth (1 Peter 1:3), a new life (Romans 6:23), and a new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1). Dr. Kinlaw, former president of Asbury College, writes: “As we look into the year that opens before us, we would like to think that it could be better than the one behind us. That yearning for something better is a gift from God and a promise that the hope can be realized. God wants the year before you to be the best that you have ever had.”

So…are you looking for a fresh start and a second chance? Good news! We worship a God who makes all things new!