This time of year, as we near New Years Eve, I usually have a flashback. I picture myself in a hotel room in Myrtle Beach, with my brother nearby, sitting in front of the TV as Dick Clark helped usher in the New Year. You see, in my childhood, most Christmases and New Year’s Eves were spent at the beach. We’d stay at this one resort, most often in a townhouse my parents rented. It was a week of arcades, beach walks, shopping, and activities. But I especially looked forward to that New Year’s Eve Night.
There was something fun about staying up late with my brother, watching performances on television, playing video games in between, and eating all kinds of good things. Of course, we were surrounded by the gifts mom and dad had purchased as well. We also had the new clothes in our closets we’d gotten at the outlets there. It was always just an exciting time full of new things. That’s why I have memories of those days, not because of resolutions. —Not because of commitments for the new year. —Not because of goals that likely would never be reached, but just because of the celebration of the season with my family.
That’s an important reminder as you begin a new year. Resolutions and commitments are ok things. If they motivate us toward goals, then Godspeed. But like a beach vacation and celebrating the holidays together, our life is made up of more than just commitments. It’s also made up of celebrations and time with family and eating together. It’s made up of shopping trips, fun activities, and great conversations on the couch late at night. Life is less about a moment of commitment, and more about a lifestyle committed to living each moment faithful to Christ.
As the new year comes, my hope for each of us is that we might glean insight from God’s word in 1 Kings 8:61 which says, “…may your hearts be fully committed to the Lord our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands.” You see, God has a way he wants us to live in all matters, from disciplines to recreation. But that has less to do with sweeping resolutions and more to do with being in his word. As he teaches you, you will learn to celebrate and sacrifice in a way that honors him.
As we begin a new year, resolve to be near to Christ by being near to his word. Join us here for worship, Sunday school, and Wednesday nights as we grow in this way together! As you watch that ball drop (at midnight or on the morning news the next morning ), celebrate with gratitude the gift of another day and another year to serve our King.
See you in 2025,
Pastor William
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