“Every Day Is New Year’s Day”
Merle Haggard once sang, “If we make it through December / Everything’s gonna be alright, I know.” December is a very busy time…Advent, preparing for Christmas: cookie baking, gift buying, card writing…For students, it’s the end of the fall semester. Before we know it, the Christ child has arrived, another “New Year” has passed, and January is here. So, here we are.
Okay, I have a confession to make: January is probably my least favorite month. It always “seems” so long, dark, and cold…But, could it “feel” that way, because the “hustle and bustle” of the holidays is over?
What is interesting to note is that the days are actually getting longer, as the sunlight increases. After Christmas, on January 6th, we enter the season of Epiphany. On the day of Epiphany, the church celebrates the revelation of Christ to all nations, and one of the themes is Christ as light of the world.
In John 8:12, Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” He also said in Matthew 5:14, “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid.” (NRSV)
Are we shining that light, or do we try to hide it? Or do we allow things to hide it, and we don’t even realize it? New Year’s is typically a time to reflect on the previous year and look forward to the hopes of the future. About 15 years ago, I remember hearing a song by Carolyn Arends called “New Year’s Day.” Part of it goes
This will be my resolution
Every day is New Year’s Day
This could start a revolution
Every day is…
One more chance to start all over
One more chance to change and grow
One more chance to grab a hold of grace
Grace…Love…Light…Why can’t every day be New Year’s Day? To not only remember to be recipients of those things but also givers each day? To share with others that which has been bestowed unto us?
Take some time and reflect on the year that was and what may be in store for the year ahead…But more importantly, prayerfully reflect the light and love that Christ has for you into a world in need. Remember: the smallest bit of light can pierce the darkest of any darkness.
Go in peace, Christ goes with you. Caroline
“Don’t settle for a spark…Light a fire instead.” ~ The “Promise” from a piece of Dove Raspberry & Dark Chocolate Swirl candy.