The hard thing about January is that it can feel like a letdown. The wonder and miracle of Christmas is over. Other than the Rose Bowl Parade (for me) and the Rose Bowl Football game (for Rick), everything quiets down. It’s time to take the ornaments off the Christmas tree and store them away, take the tree down, and vacuum the pine needles. My favorite Christmas movies (three versions of The Christmas Carol, The Man Who Invented Christmas, The Nativity, A Christmas Story, and Ben Hur—the 1959 version), are shelved in the garage cabinets, along with the Christmas books, devotionals, and CDs. The house feels colorless and quiet. Winter is upon us. Cold winds and rain whip the branches of the redwood trees behind the house.
But I’ve learned a few things over the years. I no longer dread January. I look forward to it. January is a time for a new beginning and a fresh start. I’ve shared before about spending New Year’s Eve writing out a possibilities list for the coming year. I say “possibilities” because life can get in the way of fulfilling resolutions and leave me feeling like I’ve failed. Who wants or needs additional stress in their lives? Too often, we create it for ourselves.
January is a time to evaluate my life and consider writing a new story. And I don’t mean writing a new book (though I am working on one—more to come on that throughout the year!). I mean asking God if He wants me to stay on this path or let Him lead me in a new direction. That can be both exciting and scary. I think of people who started new careers after they retired or discovered untapped talents later in life. God gives us many gifts, all for His glory. Are there any that He wants me to use that I haven’t yet had the courage to try? Maybe it’s time to explore and stretch. (Some of my “gifts” are best practiced in private. Singing, for example. I warble a joyful noise. Dancing is best done in the garage with the door closed so I can “go for it” and give God a good laugh.)
“Writing a new story” can mean staying the course with renewed enthusiasm and dedication. It can mean saying “sorry, but no” to good things so that we have time to do our best at one calling. Saying no can be hard to do, especially if you want to help people or make them comfortable and happy. Sometimes “helping” can slow another person’s growth.
January used to be a time of doldrums. Now, it opens the season of dreams. January is the perfect time to pray, “What’s next, Lord?”
Following Jesus offers us the joy of His constant Presence, continual purpose, and a bountiful and adventurous life.