There is a major pattern in life that most everyone understands: that which has a beginning also has an end. Depending on the application, the timing between those two points can differ tremendously. Farmers count on the seed that is planted in the spring bringing forth some end product that can be harvested in the fall. But even mountain peaks show signs of erosion, indicating that they are on a slow decline from their highest elevations, even if the inevitable takes millions of years. We live on a planet where decay and decline is the natural order of things, even if there are times of growth somewhere in between.
As December 31 approaches, we are all watching the days run out on the calendar year. We understand that, once the clock strikes midnight, this year that began 366 days prior (Leap year), will end, and whatever goals that we had set for 2024 that were unaccomplished will remain unaccomplished. That which began comes to an end. However, when it comes to the end of the year, we see another pattern that also exists in nature: when one thing ends, another begins. We literally turn the page from 2024 to 2025, ending the old year and leaving behind whatever took place, to welcome in a new year that starts off as a blank slate.
The beauty of the blank slate is that our failures, stumbles, and self-inflicted wounds from the previous beginning and end need not carry into the next iteration. However, when all that begins is another year, it is difficult to escape some of those past issues. To break free, there must be a corresponding new beginning in attitude that creates behaviors and habits that produce better results. A simple but regular stretching routine can increase flexibility that helps muscles and joints do things that previously caused injury. A modified schedule of communications can help keep in touch with friends and clients who seemed forgotten. Lessons learned at the end can help us to do better with the next beginning.
This is perhaps the most important thing to know in applying to the end and subsequent beginning that should be of most interest to every one of us – the end of our own lives and the beginning of what’s next. You see, there’s a book filled with wisdom that all mankind needs for preparation regarding that very event, and if you haven’t read it, you are likely ill-prepared for that big moment. So, among your New Year’s resolutions, put on the very top to read the Bible from cover to cover, and spend some time on Sunday morning at church to hear more about the critical things that you are reading about. Change this one pattern of behavior, and you will find yourself not only prepared for what’s to come in the next life, but you will be far-better equipped for the challenges to come in this life as well.
Happy New Year, and peace and blessings – Pastor Aaron