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Many people see the date as a kind of “start again” date. Like starting up your computer again after a crash. It offers the mental image of a new beginning. (Procrastinators and the indecisive could use all of the new years as restart dates.)

For those who see their life in cycles, it could mark the beginning of a new cycle. However, although God has made the seasons which correspond to a cycle (connected to the cycling of the earth around the sun), the life God has given us is not best seen as a series of cycles.

The life God has given humans is moving forward to an end, or better, a goal. For many the end is death. But not in God's plan. The final culmination of God's life for humans is one without a stopping point. The end is unending because it is God's great purpose to draw humans into his life and presence. Beyond death he will give them new bodies that can live in his presence and share his glory.

New Years are useful markers nevertheless. Another year closer to the finished outcome of God's grace. And also, another year of God's grace. Another year lived as his servant, in his creation. Every year we live is a gift of God. But one day time will be no more. Then we will need no time markers. Then we will be forever in his presence where he means us to be.

Dale

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