Tuesday, December 23, 2008

So, What's New?

More and more each year we receive Christmas cards that include a letter that chronicles the events, changes and heroics of the past year. It seems to be one parting shot at a year gone by and well wishes for the new. Most of these epistles are informative and often entertaining and truth be known the McQuiddy’s have penned a few familial yarns themselves. This exercise in reflection is also a written form of the age approved conversation that begins with, “So, what’s new?” In one sense the New Testament epistles are primarily one party informing the other about what’s new.

As we enter the New Year the prospect of what will be new is both exciting and a challenge as well. Each year brings the renewed hope that this one will top all the others and that God will bless each of us with opportunities for service and the maturing of our faith. O, we all know that lingering in the shadows is the imminent reality that with all of the excitement of new adventures there rests the reality that death, illness and ill fortune will come our way. Nothing will stop that reality but never-the-less nothing will diminish the assurance of our faith and love in a God who works for the good of those who love Him. Faith will be tested, love will need to conquer and hope will have to anchor not only our souls but our aim to do mighty things in the name of our Lord.

So, what’s new? I’m praying for fresh eyes to see how I may serve my family, my community, my church and most of all, my Lord. My prayer is that we all find newness in our worship, our service and our play. That God grants us a new spirit of joy in faithful living and reverence for His guidance in all things. I long for us to know with unwavering assurance that we are the body of Christ and ambassadors of His love and presence in this world! So, what’s new? Solomon says, “Nothing under the sun.” But I say, “Nothing original maybe but every opportunity to meet each new day with a new and renewed spirit of passion and compassion for ministry. So, watch out old her comes the new! -DAN

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