A New Year

For me, the days between Christmas and New Years always feel like time stands still. It’s a time when Leah and I reflect on the past year and focus on our hopes and goals for the new year. I have never been one to make New Year Resolutions mainly due to lack of preparation once December comes. However, I do like to focus on a specific word as a personal theme for the new year. I like to find a word that can guide my decisions and ideas and be a focal point throughout each month.
Over the past few days, I have reflected on the children’s ministry here at Riverchase. A year ago, I had many hopes and dreams for 2020. I was preparing to leave for my annual children’s ministry conference, and I was eager to begin planning events for the summer. We were meeting for LTC practices, and Leah and I were working with the chorus. We were also in the early stages of our foster journey and unaware that our first placement was coming to an end. As we all know, 2020 did not go as planned for anyone. In March, our church began navigating the pandemic, and we learned to adjust and adapt to new circumstances. Gone were many of the events I was looking forward to doing. Gone were many of the gatherings. Gone was hugging friends, meeting for Bible class, and spending regular time together. Yes, 2020 had many blessings and positives, too. We learned to slow down, we learned to focus on family, and we learned not to take small things for granted. Ultimately, we learned God is in control.
As I reflected on the past year, the word that kept coming to mind was connect. For me, I want 2021 to be filled with connections.
I want 2021 to be a year where we as a church are connecting more with Christ.
I want 2021 to be a year where our children’s ministry families are connecting more as a family unit.
I want 2021 to be a year where we are connecting more with our brothers and sisters to create a stronger Church community.
Have you ever focused on a word for the new year, too? If not, take time this week to explore your goals, thoughts, and ideas. What do you hope the new year brings? I would love to hear your thoughts as well.