Connect in a special way with these verses that will help you start this 2024. Explore this small guide that will help you grow spiritually in the arrival of the new year.
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
The beginning of a new year prompts us to reflect on our connection to our ancestral lineage. Many times we look for similarities in physical traits or family expressions that link us to our history. However, beyond these obvious characteristics, what truly connects us across generations is what we learn and preserve in our hearts.
Our hearts are the reservoir of our experiences and the teachings passed down from previous generations. The faith of our ancestors permeates their advice and decisions. Despite the challenges and adversities they faced, they sought the best to move forward, guided by faith in God.
"And may your hearts be fully committed to the Lord our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands, as at this time." 1 Kings 8:61
Guided by the hand of our Heavenly Father, they followed patterns of behavior and values transmitted throughout time. Our education, molded by the social, cultural and religious context, is protected by the mantle of the Lord. Every lived experience, good or bad, nourishes the heart, shaping our emotions and determining our actions.
The heart is the epicenter of our emotions, where memories and experiences reside. It is also the receptacle of wounds and negative feelings that we must release to make way for new emotions, stories and personal growth. Freeing ourselves from the bonds of the past allows us to balance ourselves internally, supported by faith, and open ourselves to what God has for us.
"Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:6
True change begins with openness to God's message.Our Heavenly Father longs for us to change when life overwhelms us with pressures and anxieties. Assuming this perspective allows us to receive Jesus with a pure and willing heart.Real transformation demands a daily commitment to God's Word, allowing faith to guide our walk in the new year.
Family connection is an invaluable bond that deserves to be celebrated and strengthened as we welcome a new year. Rituals and practices can be a beautiful way to bring family together and start the year with love, peace and hope.
Reunion and Sharing: Organizing a family gathering to bid farewell to the year is an opportunity to reconnect and share. In this space, each member can reflect on their achievements, learning and challenges of the year that is ending. Creating a welcoming environment conducive to dialogue fosters empathy, understanding and family unity.
Making the necessary thank-you notes that reinforce gratitude is a beautiful way to close the cycle. You could write thank-you notes to each family member, expressing appreciation and affection. You can also perform a symbolic ceremony, such as lighting candles representing the happy moments of the year or making a mural with photographs that summarize the most significant moments.
"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you." John 15:16
Family Purposes: Setting family purposes or goals is an effective way to generate a sense of belonging and common direction. It is important to define realistic and motivating goals that benefit everyone. You can plan activities for the new year, such as trips, collaborative projects or activities that promote family well-being.
Some families choose to perform a blessing ritual where divine protection is invoked for the coming year. This may involve a joint prayer, blessing with holy water or blessing of members by family elders, wishing health, prosperity and well-being for all.
It is essential to set aside time for personal reflection and renewal of spirit. Encouraging individual moments of meditation, gratitude and connection with God can be of great value to each family member.