The Promise
My devotional scripture is Psalm 96.

Now that Christmas is over and all the hustle bustle of the season is behind us…we can now reflect on what Christmas was truly all about and the beginning of a new year. I tend to feel like a deflated balloon after the holidays are over. There is so much excitement and anticipation…especially if you have children or young children in your family. You know what I’m talking about. The air around us is magically charged with this awesome energy. Think about it…I really don’t think the “magic” comes solely from the anticipation of gifts. The magic is all about the ONE we are celebrating! He is on our minds a little more this time of year and He makes the season come alive. So, when the day has come and gone…there’s a feeling of sadness (at least for me there is).

What I found to be so beautiful about this Psalm is it reminds us that we have a new year awaiting us full of promise…“a new song” as David put it. We have a clean slate, a fresh start, a second chance…to get “it” right (no matter what that “it” may be). This puts a smile on my face. Not only does this Psalm remind us to look forward to the new year it reminds us of Christ’s return. Each day is full of promise! God never breaks a promise…and we know that one day He is coming back for us!!! What a wonderful day to look forward to! So…there really is no reason to be sad when you have that promise to look forward to everyday.

Jenny Matthews