The month of January has an interesting origin. It is associated with the Roman god Janus. He was assumed to preside over all beginnings and transitions. He was depicted as having two faces—one looked back to the past, the other to the future. Mornings belonged to him, and voyages were dedicated to him. The first day of the new year was devoted to him. He ruled over gateways and doorways. In fact, our word January comes from a Latin term for door.
We have stepped through the threshold of 2025. This a time when many people set personal and professional goals regarding the next 12 months. Perhaps you have, too. Or maybe you should!
A New Year’s resolution has been humorously described as a good intention that goes in one year and out the other! Here are a few funny ones:
- Have a better attitude at work. I succeeded until 10:00 am the next day.
- Jog more. Does running late count?
- Procrastinate less. I may start in July.
- Stop wasting time. I’ve been thinking about how to do that for hours.
Many people also set spiritual goals. The 17th century pastor Jonathan Edwards wrote, “Resolved: that every person should live for the glory of God. Resolved second: Whether others do or not, I will.”
Here is a sampling of possible specific spiritual resolutions you might try:
- Pray more consistently.
- Worship more frequently.
- Forgive more easily.
- Accept others more readily.
It has been well said that a goal without a plan is merely a wish. I would add that a plan without power is just frustration! The true God of New Beginnings can provide us with both.
May God by his power bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and every deed prompted by faith. We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him.
2 Thessalonians 1:11-12
May we see our resolutions realized in 2025. And may we receive new wisdom and strength and hope for the new year.
Pastor Mike Weber, CBV Chaplain
