The New Year always brings that sense of a fresh hope, a new start – a desire to grow, change, take action for the better.
It heralds opportunity. A mere date in the calendar has none of this – just a morning by morning view. But having just celebrated Christmas – the birth of the Christ child Jesus – the New Year gives a sense of rebirth.
Our church has just completed a study on ‘offence’ – called the bait, the trap that evil puts in our path – to cause breakdown in relationships, in families and communities. Today even expressing opinions or beliefs will be an offence to those sensitive people who hold different views – and their reaction can cause more offence. We see it all around us in these days. I – in company with many others, I am sure – have unintentionally caused offence, and have reacted to offensive behaviour wrongly so as to continue the problem. This New Year is a time to reflect, and to make a change.
Forgiving those who cause offence sets us free from having to respond; and also avoiding giving offence – not by silence or fear of speaking up, but by expressing any honest opinions held with humble and mindful justification. And not taking offence at those who have alternative and opposing opinions!
As a Christian, the fruit of the Spirit will evidently grow as we uphold the word of God – that is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. There is no law against these, and as we encourage one another in our personal relationships, and where possible through media – we can all make a difference – and usher in a kinder, forgiving and generous world.
May I wish every reader a very happy, healthy, and prospering 2020 – a year of promise for us all.
Revd Iain Murray – CLG Westbury at the Laverton
