Happy New Year

A frined and gifted leader, every Monday sends out a few words of incouragement for the week. I really injoyed what he had to say today so I pass it on to you.

New Year's Day customs and tradition vary greatly around the world. Here in the United States we kiss our spouse at midnight (if you can stay up that late), set off fireworks, and declare new resolutions. In other places, they exchange gifts (Haiti), eat 12 grapes for good luck (Spain/Peru), eat bread with a coin buried in it (Greece), and on goes the list of New Year’s customs.

In Wales, at midnight they open the back door at the first strike of midnight... ushering out the past. At the twelfth strike, they open the front door... welcoming in the new! WOW, I love the concept. Christians can celebrate the New Year with whatever customs they choose, but we get to celebrate "new" all the time!

The Psalmist said: "He put a new song in my mouth!" Ezekiel declared: "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you." Paul wrote: "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has gone, and the new has come!"

As we enter the New Year, what "old" do you need to usher out the back door and what "new" do you need to open the front door to? Be bold... now is the time to receive His promise that "the new has come!"

This is truly a new year for The Chapel. I can say with convidence, this year will be like no other. I look forward to seeing the "new" happen with God's blessing.

Happy New Year.