New Beginnings

As my black eyed peas are soaking…I’m sitting here reflecting on what New Year’s Day means to me.  It is traditionally, a time to say goodbye to an old year, and embrace the new.  It is a great time for new beginnings.

For some reason, January 1^st has had a few life changing events associated with it in my lifetime.  Not only did it annually signify a new year, it brought some sad goodbyes and the most important decision I would ever make. 

Thirty five years ago today, my grandmother passed away.  Growing up, she had such a profound influence on my life.    The traditional grandma who always had an apron with big pockets, and sensible shoes; she always had a hug waiting in her arms and a cookie in her cookie jar.  That unexpected goodbye was a sad one.

Eighteen years ago today, my daddy died.  He had suffered from lung cancer, and that goodbye was, although extremely sad, was also a blessing.  He was a loving father, and a sweet grandfather to our children.    

But New Year’s Day doesn't entirely hold unhappy memories for me.  It is also the anniversary of the most joyous event in my lifetime.

Thirty four years ago today, I was sitting in church with my older sister and her boyfriend (now husband).  She seemed to have such peace in her life.  I wanted that.  She had recently made the decision to make God the top priority in her life.  Was that the key?  I had ‘given my heart’ to Jesus as a child, but that was about as far as it went.  I was now almost 19, and knew I wanted something different.  I prayed and asked God to please fill my life with His Peace, and I would hand my life over to Him.  At that simple, unassuming moment, my life was forever changed.  I truly knew what it was, to be a child of God.  And I’ve never looked back.  I have made many mistakes since then, as being a Christian doesn’t exempt you from sin…but I see that sin right away, ask for forgiveness and do my best to refrain from doing it again.   Thirty four years of having Someone to lean on during difficult times.  Thirty four years of a Peace that passes all understanding.  Thirty four years of knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt that I am Loved beyond measure.  And thirty four years of knowing that when I die, I have a mansion waiting for me and I will be able to see with unhindered eyes, the face of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

How about you?  Are you looking for some type of peace?  Now is a good day to ask for it.  Happy New Year!

Matthew 7:7   "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."

Acts 17:27 ^“ God did this so that they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from any one of us.”