Thoughts on the New Year

     The end of a year. The beginning of a new one. This time around, the shift from one year to the next feels more significant than before. For me, this transition marks a lot of change that has happened and will continue to happen. In 2014, I turned 18, a weird milestone since I never thought that I would reach it. I began taking college classes. A whole lot of other things have happened that have made me feel so darn old! As 2015 arrives, I know it will bring with it more changes and unexpected twists and turns. In the spring, my brother and I will graduate high school, Lord-willing. This also means that my brother and I will be "graduating" from our church youth group as well. Which is sort of sad to think about. I've been in the youth group for five years and boy is it going to be sad to leave!
     But, of course, the biggest change looming ahead is college. Ah, the dreaded word. It seems that with this one step into that next chapter that all that is familiar and special to me is left behind. It's a scary and sad thought to think that I will leave all of my family and friends and everything that I've known for my whole life!
     So, the shift from 2014 to 2015 is significant. A lot of change is heading my way. Thinking back on all the indescribable memories that I've made with my family and friends in 2014 and beyond makes me wish so badly that I could go back! If only for a moment. I have these thoughts sometimes.
     But then the good Lord comes in and reminds me of His faithfulness. And His love. And His goodness. And His sovereignty. And I am reminded that my job is not to dwell on the past or worry about the future. My job is to be still. To look ahead with hope, knowing that my Father has a perfect plan for my life, hardships and all. He did not spare His own Son. He will provide. He will bring me through.
     So let the change come. Because no matter what familiar things I leave behind, my God and my Rock will always be at my side.


Here's some lyrics to a song I wrote while considering some of these things:

Sometimes I wish that I could start over

Looking back to the past is almost too much to bear

All the memories that have been created

Now they're just memories and nothing more

Every good thing must come to an end

And though it might be over, I'll never forget

I will open my eyes and look ahead

I will remember Your faithfulness

It's not over yet

It's not over yet

Brother, sister: God is not done sanctifying you. And He will be glorified as you draw closer to Christ. Happy New Year.

--Rye Bread