January 1

My steps have held to Your paths; my feet have not slipped. — Ps 17:5 BSB

Without strictly or superstitiously observing "days, months, seasons, and years," most of us cannot help but acknowledge the arrival of a new year both to God and to others. When we wake up on the first morning of the year, we instinctively think, "This is New Year's Day." But our acknowledgment should go beyond just noticing this. When we kneel before God in prayer, we mix gratitude for the blessings of the past year with earnest requests for similar mercies in the coming one. Last night, we confessed our sins, backslidings, and wanderings from God over the past year. This morning, we pray for grace to walk in His ways and avoid stumbling throughout the new year. Tears are fitting at the burial of the old year; hopes and desires are fitting for the birth of the new. The past year, worn out with age, is like a father laid to rest, while the new year is like a newborn in its mother's arms. Outwardly, today may not look much different from yesterday, but a thoughtful and prayerful mind sees the old year buried with its trials and afflictions, and the new year beginning with fresh hopes and mercies. And if new trials come, the promise stands that new strength will be provided to face them.

After such reflection and prayer, we go to greet our families, wishing them a "Happy New Year," and receive the same greeting in return. Friends and acquaintances throughout the day may extend the same kind wishes. While these greetings may sometimes be mere formalities, there is often sincerity, kindness, and affection behind them. Surely, we are not so self-absorbed that we have no desire for the well-being of our families, friends, or even acquaintances. If we genuinely desire their good, we should not hesitate to express it in a friendly greeting. "Be kind to one another, tender-hearted"; "Be sympathetic and courteous"; "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all." These instructions align perfectly with the spirit of the gospel and can be followed without compromising the faithfulness that comes with walking daily in the fear of the Lord. There is a place for kind words, just as there is for "sound words." We can use both in harmony with the spirit and doctrines of the gospel.