Devotion:
Read Isaiah 43:16-19.
Do you like new stuff? Most of us do. Part of the excitement for kids (and grown-ups) as they open presents at Christmas is that they're getting something new. It can be new toys, a new bicycle, a new phone, and many other things.
We do like new things, but it's also possible to get stuck in the past. Some of us may have a nostalgic hope that we can recover the "good old days" or the good old times. We might feel stuck by our circumstances, or an injustice that has been done to us.
Though Christians do not ignore the past, faith in Christ always challenges us to look forward. Our goal is not change for the sake of change, as if new things by themselves could give us hope and fulfillment. But Isaiah reminds us of the only One who brings lasting change: "I am doing a new thing!" God says. We can find joy in forgetting our past only when our future is controlled by letting Christ guide and work in us. Because of the cross, we can experience the joy of forgetting our mistakes of the past and pressing on as new people in Jesus Christ.
Personal Worship Option:
God of new beginnings, thank you for a fresh start in Christ. Help us to leave behind our sin and to live joyfully for him. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
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