Happy New Year! For some, this sentiment causes excitement, positivity and anticipation of what's ahead, focusing on the endless possibilities the next 365 days may hold.
For others, these three, seemingly, harmless words strewn together cause dread, anxiety and skepticism. That it will only be a repeat performance of the previous twelve months which held hurt and disappointment, prompting the question, “What’s so happy about it?”
Such mixed reactions can be a result of reflecting on what was and contemplating what might be. Everyone wants to have meaning and purpose in their lives and when high expectations for the year are unmet, it either shapes us to dread a new year or embrace disheartening times as an opportunity to learn, grow, and make the best of the days ahead.
Sometimes we make resolutions to start fresh. We let go of “the bad” and adopt a positive outlook and new strategies with hopes that we’ll receive something good and thrilling. But if our hope is rooted in what the world has to offer, providing temporary intoxicating adventures, we will never find fulfillment or satisfaction, no matter what the scenario. A life without Christ lends to this exact reality, a broken merry-go-round that never stops.
However, a life in and with Christ never ceases to see possibilities. New year or not, The power of the Holy Spirit works in us a newness that is limitless. Each new day in the life of a believer presents the blessing to depend on and trust in our one true hope, Jesus Christ.
Today's verse takes that hope deeper. John, the author of Revelation, has a front row seat in witnessing what every Christian is longing for in the midst of our crumbling world.He paints a beautiful picture of when Christ will transform the world with a new heaven and earth as he prepares to rule and reign. Oh, what a glorious day that will be! A cause for celebrations greater than any new year’s party! You and I, as followers of Christ, will be present in that new heaven and earth together with Jesus.
No longer will there be a world offering empty assurances to those searching for delights that cease to fill the emptiness of a soul that does not know Jesus. No longer will we feel the confusion and destruction of earth's evil. With what's promised to come, there will only be peace and eternal rejoicing.
Heavenly Father, thank you for offering me so much more than the world does. That your promises are true and never return empty. Words can’t describe my excitement for your new heaven and earth that’s to come. It will be incredible! Amen.
Throughout This Day: Read today’s verse several times. Allow the reality of this event to spur you on in your faith as you start this new year, keeping your eyes fixed on the eternal.