Whether they involve calendar years, relationships, or a new creation, a new beginning is always exciting, When you think of the word "beginning," what comes to mind? The dictionary definition of "beginning" is given as: the point in time or space at which something starts.
Classical Greek philosopher Plato said, "The beginning is the most important part of the work." I tend to agree with him. A certain amount of thought and consideration is required when undertaking any new beginning. It's not uncommon to invest heavily at the outset in order to up the chance of success. Let's take a look at an example...
The beginning of a new (romantic) relationship entails something along these lines. To make a good first impression with someone we carefully dress, act, and speak accordingly. It's important to lay a solid groundwork. Then, we let human nature take its course from there.
Though even with the utmost diligence and preparation, there is no guarantee of success. For the fortunate, perhaps a long-lasting relationship lies ahead. For others, the relationship will fizzle out early on.
No matter whether the relationship takes flight, or not, two things are common across the board. There is a beginning, and at some point (which varies for everyone) an end. And so it goes with human relationships. However, there is one clear exception. It is our relationship with God.
Unlike the uncertainty that encompasses human relationships, there is one where the word "beginning" takes on a different, unmistakable meaning. I am alluding to the opening verse in the first book of the Bible: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1).
This indeed is the ultimate beginning. the beginning of all beginnings, if you will. Without embarking on a lengthy treatise of Genesis, I would simply like to focus on "In the beginning..." Remember the definition of "beginning" that was given earlier? It is the point at which something starts. Nothing existed beforehand. There was no universe. galaxy, solar system, earth, you, nor I. (Hebrews 11:3)
Well, almost nothing. God was there (John 1:1). Why did God create all of this? No one can say. Did He have to create any of this? No. There are so many questions, but they can only be answered by God himself. I can't wait to ask him about them someday. But, there is one thing I do feel comfortable about commenting on now. I think He did all of this out of "love." (Jeremiah 29:11)
You see, what good is any of this if it can't be shared with someone you love. Maybe I'm being too simplistic, You say, "But God couldn't have been lonely, after all he has his hosts of angels for company." That's true, but it's not quite the same thing. We are made in His image; we are His children (Romans 8:16).
God's creation of the heavens and earth was the "beginning" of our relationship with Him. Think about it. How can you truly express love without sharing? Greed, lust, envy, etc., are all human characteristcs attributed to our flawed and sinful nature. God is perfect; without flaw. He is our Father. And, what proud parent wouldn't want to share his love with his children? (Genesis 1:27)
When God brought forth his creation, it was a new "beginning." This was also the beginning of his relationship with us. Believe me, He didn't just slap all of this together on a whim. Careful and loving attention went into this. It also went into creating us.
Take a look around at all of God's creation. He didn't do this for himself, he did it for us, his children. Sadly, we haven't been the most grateful, respectful, or obedient children. We've hurt him in inumerable ways over time. Yet, He still love us immensely. So much so, that he even sent His Only Son to die for our transgressions (John 3:16).
New beginnings can be exciting, and sometimes a little daunting. As you embark on this new year, in addition to a fresh, new outlook on life, why not take up a fresh, new "beginning" with God? (1 John 2:24)
Scripture: Isaiah 60:1; Psalm 104:5; Genesis 2:7; Revelation 4:11; Job 37:5
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for letting your light shine on me every day of the year. Thank you that I may always lift my eyes to you, whose right hand will bring true order to everything, even in difficult times. Give my heart the strength to be faithful, and the strength to glorify you always. Amen
God bless you!
Louise
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