The Promise of New
Linda Soller | Dec 30, 2024
What is it about something being new? We all seem to be enthralled with the idea of new is better. But in reality, most things that are new become “not new” almost immediately. Sometimes we want new because we see what others have. Is it the promise of new that is so attractive?
In the New Year we often set resolutions. We will try a new diet, or an exercise routine, or find a new job, or move to a new house. It’s one thing to desire change and want something new, but as so often happens reality sets in and the newness wears thin. Excuses come easily. So, you don’t try a new diet because the last one didn’t work. Your old exercise routine is familiar why not stick with it. In a new job you will be starting all over. Who can afford a new house? We slowly begin to question the promise of new. Maybe a new trendy sweater seems safe. Trust me the color may not be your favorite next year.
Then there is the question of getting rid of the old to make room for the new. As an antique lover that argument does not go far with me. When Jesus came to us, He was a newborn. But the newness He brought to the world had nothing to do with material things. The promise that came with His newness was meant for eternity. The gifts He brought to us would never go out of style or fall apart. His newness was to last each of us a lifetime. His lessons offered a new way to look at the world and others. Those lessons offer new opportunities. Maybe we should focus less on the promise of new and more on the opportunities of new. We can embrace our new opportunities and feel confident we are doing our part.
As we enter 2025 may we look beyond the promise of new and appreciate the opportunities of new. May we commit to do better, to do more, to help others, to pray more, to serve God in any way we can. The promise of new can be exciting, but the real reward of new is in the opportunities we are given.
Happy New Year!
Linda
