Thought for the Week

For some, today marks the reluctant return to work, and some never stopped working.

Caterpillar-like we crawl into a New Year, hoping the jaded chrysalis of last year will be discarded and a new fitter, slimmer, more diligent, more prosperous individual will fly in 2018.

There is a correct dissatisfaction with how we or things are; therefore we make resolutions about how it will be different in the days ahead.

It is always good to see a goal, a dream or a purpose.

Without these we will perish internally and our souls will die.

However, we should also seek the cause of our dissatisfaction. Is it our viewpoint that is wrong? Celtic Christianity from the Western Isles saw each day as a new beginning. A prayer from there begins: “God, bless to me the new day, Never permitted to me before; It is to bless your own presence You have given me this time, O God”.

In praying these words, attention is shifted from self, my needs and my centre to the bigger picture, the deeper meaning and the greater reality, that it’s not all about me.

May we walk into 2018 open to the higher calling and the enhanced purpose… for there we find true peace within.

Jesus said: “I’m leaving you with a gift — peace of mind and heart.

And the peace I give isn’t like the peace the world gives.

So don’t be troubled or afraid.”(John 14:27).

May you know the blessing of God in this New Year – each day. Ken Coulter Church Leader Rutherglen Baptist Community Church