How many of us made New Year’s resolutions just a few weeks ago - pledging to finally commit to resolutions we have wanted to act upon for so long?

For many of us, this time of year is one of new beginnings, whether they be New Year’s resolutions, or the start of the new school or work year. It is a time when many of us make plans and set out goals for the year ahead.

Recently we celebrated the ultimate new beginning - the coming of Jesus into the world. This new beginning is described in the gospels as good news. Why is the birth of the Saviour good news? It is because he is God’s new humanity. The only one who could fulfil God’s purposes on his own - his purposes of life in all its fullness for all people regardless of race, religion or gender.

This was a revolutionary message in the first century world of Jesus where these issues of race, religion and gender were the source of division in a highly stratified society.

But this new beginning is not just a message; it is personal. It was God actually walking the dusty roads of the Middle East. In God’s great new beginning the last are first, the crooked paths are made straight and the rough places made smooth.

This is the kingdom that Jesus brought, and that we have the privilege of participating in through our acts of kindness, mercy and love.

May this year be a new beginning for you, where you recognise anew the Christ who came into the world to set things right, and to ensure that the outcast and downtrodden know their dignity as image bearers of the God of new beginnings.

Nils von Kalm, Christian Resources and Care