“So this is Christmas. And what have you done? Another year over, and a new one just begun.”

With the excitement of Christmas fading, these lyrics from John Lennon’s song, So This is Christmas, come to mind. They describe the reflective attitude many people have this time of year as we say goodbye to 2019 and look forward to 2020. It is a time to celebrate what was accomplished, as well as make plans to address things we feel need to change. These changes usually take the form of New Year’s resolutions.

Most New Year’s resolutions tend to focus on personal health. Eating healthy and exercising rank high on the list for many people. Purchases of exercise equipment and gym memberships are highest this time of year. Enrollment in diet plans and downloading health & fitness apps is up there too. While physical health is no doubt important, how’s your spiritual health?

Would you describe your relationship with God this past year as vibrant and growing, or was He more of an acquaintance you chatted and visited with only when it was convenient? Wherever you fall on that spectrum, we all can agree there is always room for improvement. This week, we will take a short detour into the book of 2 Peter, written by the Apostle Peter just before he was executed, to remind the Church of the most important things we should be focusing on as children of God. I encourage you to read this short, three chapter book before our time together this week.

What changes can we make as a church family that can improve both our individual and collective walks with our Lord? God certainly has higher goals for the new year than it just being “a good one without any fear.”