New

When was the last time you did something for the first time?

Something new.

What is that one character you would want to change?

A new behavior.

Who is that one person you’ve always wished to meet?

A new encounter.

These are new good things. But what if the new things are unwanted? Would we still look forward to them?

Like what 2014 had.

Storm surge. This became a dreaded by-word after typhoon Yolanda devastated our country.

Destruction of heritage churches. Typhoons have lashed the country in many centuries but our churches have withstood the test of time. They were even the shelters of victims.

Missing plane and passengers.  Malaysia Airlines MH370 flight  went missing less than an hour after takeoff. The world continues to search in hope.

Death of Robin Williams. A star’s death which left questions in our minds.

Ebola virus. Dreaded new disease.

Year 2015 is here! It’s the start of a  new  year and because it’s another  year, let’s move forward from the bad news of last year, and  look forward to a year full of hope and blessings.

On this fourth new day of the year, let’s look at the glass as half-filled and not half-empty.

The storm surge and typhoons have taught us to heed emergency calls and be more prepared.

The missing plane and sudden deaths make us realize that death is indeed a thief in the night so we should be prepared.

New viruses will always hit the world, even surprising scientists or health practitioners. We should always be prepared to handle it.

Did you notice that the key word is “prepared?”

How do we prepare ourselves for another new year?

I have started a new business and it’s going on its third month yet. A new venture.

I am not sure if my return on investments will happen within this new year or the next. But what I know is that I am hoping for the best. I have asked God to be my ally and my greatest consultant. Nothing can go wrong, I believe, when you have God on your side and you’re doing something that glorifies him.

The Bible message I got at the stroke of midnight of January 1 is from Psalms 145:2-6 – “Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever. Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness.”

Yes, Lord. Before my business opens every day, I will bless you and give you glory for what I have now was made possible because of your goodness.

The talk of the last day, Judgement Day, or end of the world is a never-ending story to tell. Some said the last day of the world was last year. It didn’t happen. Now some infer that with all the calamities, war and disasters going on,  Jesus will be coming this year.

No one really knows. And no one should know except God. “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” (Matthew 24:36).

I don’t shrug off the stories or pooh-pooh them. But I tell myself that whether it be now or later, I should prepare my soul for God alone. I should be ready for that great NEW event of joining God in the house He has prepared for me… and for you. So instead of arguing as to when is dooms day, do the work out now for our spiritual preparation.

With the new year, it’s wise to be prepared for the best and worst new things. Life will always surprise us with something new. But whether good or bad, they should be embraced instead of  being evaded; welcomed instead of hated.

As tradition dictates every New Year, it is time to reflect on our choices, learn from our mistakes and scrutinize our plans. No matter what, always think God has something good in store for us.

“’For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)