Ringing in the New

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31, some cheer or kiss or use noisemakers to celebrate a new year.  Others take a more acted-out step to invite change:  cleaning house, to avoid carrying old year’s dirt into the new year.  Opening doors and windows to let out the old.

Looking for something more graphic?  In Ecuador photos of old memories are burned before midnight.     In Denmark it is considered good luck and friendship to break dishes and plates on the front step of those closest to you (if you clean up later).  In some parts of Europe, folks throw couches and fridges from their window when the clock strikes midnight.  This symbolizes unloading the old and welcoming in the new.  (But may be bad luck for those strolling on the sidewalks below.)

As close as Times Square, December 28 has been tabbed as the 19^th annual “Good Riddance Day.”  When attendees wrote down their bad memories on pieces of paper. “Our broken healthcare system,” “Spam calls and emails,” and “Single Use Plastics,” were some of the entries.  In an effort to destroy unpleasant and unwanted memories – that are tossed into an incinerator. 

The desire for leaving behind what is stale or toxic or painful as we welcome the new has spiritual support.  And more effectiveness than a ritual by itself.  What gives us hope that something is new is possible?

+ God sends new mercies – every morning! (Lamentations 3)

+  He is Lord of new things / paths / possibilities (Isaiah 42:10 & 43:19 – Don’t dwell on the past; see a new way in the desert)

+  He transplants a new heart  (Ezekiel 11:19 – Rid yourselves of offenses and I will give them an undivided heart and a new spirit)

+  He writes a new covenant on our hearts, to know the    Lord and to want to follow his ways  (Jeremiah 31:31)

+   He re-makes us to be new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17)

+  He gives a new commandment, to love  (John 13:34)

+  He gives our minds a new attitude  (Ephesians 4:23)

+  He gives us a new name  (Revelation 2:17)

+  He calls for new songs of praise  (6 times in the Psalms!)

Psychologist Scott Peck began his book, The Road Less Traveled by observing that change is hard – but possible!  A prayer for the New Year might be for the new change cited above that you most need – believing that with our God, all things are possible!