A new year lies before us and we wonder what joy and grief, achievement and disappointment await us. None can accurately predict the future, whether it may be about the economy or natural disasters. We are certain, however, that births, deaths, good and evil deeds will be part of our experiences. During the Advent-Christmas season, we did house cleaning and gave our homes a new, bright appearance. But what about heart cleaning? Have we disposed of the regrets, bitterness, the spite, as we begin the new year journey? St Paul uses sports imagery in describing his life. "Therefore I do not run like one who runs aimlessly, or box like one who beats the air." (1Cor 9:26)
Similarly, the writer of Hebrews invites us "to lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us." (Hebrews 12:1)
Excess, unnecessary baggage hinders travel, just as the weight and stress of trivial concerns hinder spiritual development. Jews celebrate their New Year (Rosh Hashanah) with certain symbolic meals. At the first meal of the new year, round loaves are used to indicate the unity and eternity of God. The round shape is also a reminder of a crown, which symbolises the sovereign rule of God in life and in history. It is always worthwhile to remind ourselves God alone is everlasting, God's faithful love endures forever, God alone is to be worshipped.
Scriptures remind us our days are like grass. Life is fragile and temporal. But we are not mere creatures of hours and years on earth. Paul tells the Philippians "our citizenship is in heaven" (Ch 3:20) and to the Corinthians he says, "for we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands." (2 Cor 5:1) Peter also speaks of living in this tent of the body which will soon be put aside as our Lord Jesus has made clear to me. (2 Peter 1:13) Our body is like a temporary tent but it is also a temple of the Holy Spirit. Life may seem too short and transitory but there is an eternal value at the heart of it all. A frequent warning in Jesus' parables is: Be alert, be watchful.
Foolish persons neglect to build their lives on solid foundations. Foolish acts and attitudes have dire consequences. The rich man thought he could spend a carefree and enjoyable life after his grain and goods were all stored up. But he was foolish, for that very night his life was demanded of him. (Luke12:16-21) Ten virgins went to meet the groom, their lamps all lit. But five were foolish and were not prepared with extra oil for the groom's delay. (Matthew 25:1-13) During the new year, pray for wisdom to set your heart on the inexhaustible treasures in heaven, and not simply on what you have purchased and acquired. Pray for the wisdom to choose the correct path, however difficult it may be and the right guide, no matter how uneasy you may feel at times. God is our creator, comforter and companion.
Rev Everson Sieunarine
