Why is there a “New Year”? Is it because we simply continue celebrating celestial events like the ancients did? For many it probably is, but there’s more to the story. Linear time was created with the rest of the universe. God exists outside of linear time. He’s not constrained by it, but He chose to make us with a connection to it. The wisdom of the “preacher” in Ecclesiastes provides a beautiful picture of the rhythm of life;

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven…” – Eccl. 3:1 NKJV

God created us with a relationship to the cyclical nature of things “under heaven”. As we embark on a new year, it’s a perfect time to consider past, present and future. Just as we need rest, we also need to take a moment to pause and reflect. Here’s a simple prayer as you go:

“Lord, when I reflect on last year, please remind me of who and what you provided (or removed). When I think about today, please show me who and what to appreciate. And as I consider the new year, please help me leave behind what I’ve been forgiven for, to not worry over what I can’t change, and to walk in a way that honors You.”