With the new year comes a sense of new beginnings. Resolutions, new plans and expectations are laid out to help better one's sense of well-being.
The future looks bright with unlimited possibilities.
Another aspect that is afforded at the opening of a new year is the old year has come to an end. The prospect of leaving behind the unpleasant, harmful and hurtful events of the previous year provides a sense of relief.
There have been several occasions when, with the stroke of midnight, a sense of relief flooded over me, knowing the previous year had come to an end, and I could let go of the ugly events that had occurred.
A new year.
Letting go of the past.
A fresh start.
New opportunities.
But why do we wait until the new year for these things to take place? Every day is a new beginning. Yesterday is past and today awaits with untold possibilities.
When each new day is viewed as a new beginning, the hurts, pains and uncertainties of yesterday can be let go. Anticipation for the new day can swell to great expectations.
Remember what the scriptures say about forgiveness: Forgive not seven times, but 70 times seven.
Remember what the scriptures say about worrying: do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries.
A new year is here with new possibilities, yes. But remember to start each day given to you by God while being very much aware of the new possibilities the day promises.
The Rev. Mark Broadhead is Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church and First Presbyterian Church of Crestview’s pastor.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: FROM THE PULPIT: A new year brings a fresh start