In this message series, we have been shown that singing is an act of worship from the angels declaring the birth of Christ to Paul and Silas singing while in prison. We were instructed to “Behold” or pay attention to the good news as we beheld the baby Jesus, the Lamb of God – our Savior. We learned about peace being a state of tranquility and freedom from oppressive thoughts as the angels visited the shepherds and that joy really is possible – exceedingly great joy!

Throughout the Christmas season, we have realized that Jesus came to bring change into the world. After Mary, was visited by the angel, her life was forever changed.  Jesus came for the shepherds, who were the forgotten of the day and the Wisemen, who traveled and brought him gifts, and for everyone in between. In order that we all could experience a change only he could bring. But changes can be challenging or even unsettling. It can be difficult to effectively handle the disruptions change can cause. Coping with change while having joy, wasn’t easy for Mary and Joseph, or for the shepherds and wisemen and change isn’t always easy for us.

When Jesus called the disciples, they had to change their vocation, activities, and relationships without any preparation. They left everything to follow Jesus. Nothing prepared them for what they would face, but they willingly followed him into the unknown. As we begin this New Year, there will be transitions in life, and it will be tempting to give into fear and resist change. However, God wants us to grow through our circumstances and realize in our vulnerability, that we need Him. Like Paul, may we understand that all our talents and abilities cannot compare with knowing God.

In John 16:33, Jesus reminds us that we will have trials and temptations, but that we can take courage and have joy, because he has overcome the world and deprived it of power to conquer us.

God never changes and by keeping our trust in Him – the author and finisher of our faith- we will have a strong foundation this year, regardless of what comes. Change is an integral part of our journey. As believers, we are called to embrace transformation through faith in Christ, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. By trusting in God’s unchanging nature, perseverance through trials, and renewing our minds through His word, we can begin this year not looking over our shoulder at our past mistakes. After all, there is nothing in our past that we can change! No matter how bad you want to go back and change it… you cannot! However, God can change you.

Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 3:16-18, 2 Corinthians 5:15-17 NLT, Titus 2:11-14 NLT, Romans 12:1-2 MSG, Matthew 4:18-22 MSG, John 16:33 AMPC

Verses:  I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.  -Philippians 3:12-14 AMPC

Questions:  What changes would you like to make this year? How could trusting in God’s grace help you achieve that goal? Be thankful…in hard times, focus on what you gain instead of what is lost.

Prayer: Let’s make Psalm 139:23-24 from the Message bible our prayer for this year.

Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Cross-examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I’m about. See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong – then guide me on the road to eternal life. In Your Name, amen.