As we turn the page of the calendar to January 1, 2022, not only is it a new month but also a new year.  This brings thoughts of new beginnings, new opportunities, new experiences.

          Unfortunately, many individuals are plagued by calamities from the past year, dwelling on issues that have kept them in the doldrums.  Perhaps a financial setback, the loss of a loved one, a business failure, a medical diagnosis, a rift in a relationship or job dissatisfaction are preventing one from enjoying the new beginnings at the onset of a new year.

          The Lord spoke to the prophet Isaiah regarding the nation Israel. "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?  I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."  Isaiah 43: 18-19.

          God accused Israel of abandoning Him.  He said they did not pray to Him, bring sacrificial offerings, or burn incense.  Instead, they burdened Him with their sins and wearied Him with their offenses.

          He reminded them "that he blots out trangression and remembers sin no more." Isaiah 43:25  It is in this situation that God states He is doing a new thing.  He says to forget about the past and press forward.  In fact, one of the new things that God is going to do is provide the sacrifice for sin Himself in the form of His own Son on their behalf.  No longer will they need to bring animals to the altar since the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sins.

          If God can remember our sins no more, shouldn't we be able to banish them from  our minds?  The apostle Paul stated, "But this one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 3: 13-14.

          As the new year begins, let us make an effort to keep our eyes focused on Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith rather than looking in the rearview mirror dwelling on our past mistakes and misfortunes.  God is the God of new beginnings.  Let's follow Him.

Blessed New Beginnings,

Pastor Dave