Well, we did it. We survived the trifecta of Advent, Christmas, and New Year’s! Now all that’s left is to face the possibility of snow and sub-zero temperatures in January. Sorry folks, it’s the reality of living in Wisconsin in January.
However, I don’t actually mind the cold or the snow, but I know for many others this isn’t your favorite time of year – dressing in multiple layers to clear the driveway or run to the grocery store isn’t high on your favorite activities list. Snow blowing in your face leaves something to be desired unless you’re my ten year old who prays for snow daily so he can go out and play.
Lately I’ve been reflecting on the past year and thinking about how we conclude the end of a year and begin the next. As many of you know, a new year is merely an arbitrary trick of the human calendar. Technically, a new year could happen on any day and at any time. Time is seamless and constant, so we use clocks and calendars to remind us that time matters, and we document moments of time so we don’t forget – appointments, tasks, visits, birthdays, social commitments, and so much more – they all find their way onto our calendar.
But time has its way of taking its toll on us. I turned 50 a few months ago and the other day as I was getting out of bed a reminder was gifted to me of an achy back and tired legs as I shuffled my way to the kitchen to begin the day. It reminded me that time has had its way with me. The years accumulate and they are both a blessing and also a reminder of our mortality.
Every year bring both the fortunate and unfortunate to us. As I get older this has taken on new meaning to me. When I was younger this didn’t really make any sense because every year was just another new opportunity and a time for exploration. A new year means more. But I think there comes a time when your perspective on time changes. As we get older I think we learn to treasure all time, whether good or bad because some time is better than no time at all.
I don’t say this to sadden you or grieve you, but to remind each of us not to take anything for granted. None of us can predict what will happen in the next few minutes let alone the next year. Value your time and don’t waste any of it or even complain about it. Invest your time wisely in activities that produce beneficial results for yourself, your loved ones, and the world.
Every moment is a threshold between what has been and what is to come. We come from a multitude of yesterdays, and we move toward an unknown tomorrow. Most importantly though, our incredible loving God is present in of all those moments. A new year is an opportunity, each day is a gift, and every breath a chance to live life more fully.
How will you choose to use your time? My hope is that each of us will choose to use our time to reflect God’s greater purpose for us. Care for one another and the world around us. Treat all time as precious. My friends, let’s move through this new year and be part of God’s blessings.
Pastor Tony