A new year really is a big deal …

“So why do people make such a big deal about a new year?” is a common question/quasi-complaint made by many people this time of year.

The argument offered by these people is that simply turning the page on a calendar doesn’t suddenly change everything.

That’s true, it doesn’t.

But here’s why a new year actually is a big deal: The turning of a calendar page from the end of one year to the start of the next doesn’t result in anything “magical” or “mystical” happening, but it does denote the potential for another year of life.

The gift of time IS significant; time is life, and how you live matters.

That well-known writer, “Unknown Source,” tried to capture why a new year is significant:

I am the New Year. I am an unspoiled page in your book of time.

I am your next chance at the art of living. I am your opportunity to practice what you have learned about life during the last twelve months.

All that you sought and didn’t find is hidden in me, waiting for you to search it but with more determination.

All the good that you tried for and didn’t achieve is mine to grant when you have fewer conflicting desires.

All that you dreamed but didn’t dare to do, all that you hoped but did not will, all the faith that you claimed but did not have — these slumber lightly, waiting to be awakened by the touch of a strong purpose.

I am your opportunity to renew your allegiance to Him who said, “Behold, I make all things new.”

Unless the Lord returns before you die, there will be a year in which you flip the calendar to a new year but you won’t live to see the end of that year.

You don’t know which year that will.

So yes, a new year really is a big deal.

“Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom,” Psalm 90:12.

“So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do,” Ephesians 5:15-17.”

Scotty