2024: New Year, New Me

 

2024.   I am still not used to saying that.   2024 is a milestone year.    Some of you will remember that 50 years ago (in 1974) Richard Nixon resigned from office as President of the United States.   This year is a milestone year for  me as it is the 50^th anniversary of some things in my life.   Back in 1974   (50 years ago), I graduated from college with a B.A. in religion and also became the pastor of a local church for the first time.

            Life is different now than 50 years ago.  Let me give you a few examples:

1.        In 1974,  the house I lived in had only a telephone that I  spoke on that was attached to a wire that ran to the house and that line was shared by other people in nearby homes (a party line).    Today, I speak to people on a phone I carry in my pocket.

2.        In 1974,  on line was where we hung the clothes after they washed in the washing machine.    Today, online is where you send email, check your bank balance, or order a pizza or  clothing as  you are on the internet.

3.        In 1974,   you could participate in worship only one way and that is by attending in person.   Today, you can attend worship by going on youtube, Facebook live, or some other platform. 

          I find myself in these days thinking of that passage of scripture that says:  “Behold, I make all things new.”   Thanks be to God for giving us a new year and a new day.    While I am grateful for a new year and to be celebrating 50 years as a pastor this year,  I find myself wanting more than to look back to the past.   I want to look to the future, and as I look to the future I  yearn to be different and to be new.   I am reminded of a quote I came across several years ago that says:   “Be the change you want to see.”    I  realize that the place I need to start in seeing the world is different is through being different.    Here are a few things I will pursue in 2024 in my quest to be new and different:

I want to spend  more time looking for the good and potential in others and less time in seeing their faults and weaknesses

I want to tell at least one person a day that “I love them”

If I post anything on social media, I will try everyday to post something that is positive and encouraging

I want to stop more and see the beauty in the world God has created and I want to listen more to God in my prayers

2024.   New year, new me.   What say you?   Have a joy-filled week.-  Pastor Randy Wall 

PRAYER --  O God,  thank you the gift of this new year and new day. Create a clean heart in me, O God;   through Christ our Lord.  Amen.