---

שָׁנָה

Shannah: This word (original Hebrew above) references multiple things. As a noun, it represents a cycle of time, the year, as it repeats again and again and again. It can also mean repetition.

In addition, however, shannah can be used a verb. A verb that we would equate to change.

So, as we begin this new year, I have to wonder about change and repetition. How often do we begin the year planning big changes and pondering how to improve upon our lives and make this year better than last?

How often do we fail?

As I began pondering this topic, my mind immediately drifted toward gym memberships and bad habits. Starting new habits and ending old ones can be overwhelming.

At the beginning of the New Year, gym memberships are signed up for like crazy. Everybody needs to make a change and be healthier.

The tobacco quit lines have their busiest season after January 1st. People have to quit in the New Year.

People are insistent on changing their lives. For the better.

BUT. . .

Most gym memberships go unused. Many give up by February.

Quitting tobacco seems impossible, even with help. So, those goals are abandoned as well.

When asked about the “giving up,” people say it was too hard and the changes did not really matter anyway. Why bother?

So, why bother? Is there hope for change? Is there a reason?

Or, are we stuck in this cycle with no possibility of change?

---

שָׁנָה

Shannah

Repetition. Change

Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

Isaiah 43:19

GOD is always able to do something new and create change in our lives. We may see a desert, a wasteland, NOTHINGNESS.

GOD makes all things new.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

2 Corinthians 5:17

The old has passed away. Last year is over.

Change is coming.

As we embark on a journey into this new year, this opportunity for change, I ask one question:

What will you choose this year?

I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live.

Deuteronomy 30:19

GOD has placed Himself so near us that change is never impossible. Life is not impossible.

Years will come and go. Seasons repeat their cycles.

However, you have the opportunity to seek Him who loves you so much that He chose your wellbeing and opportunity for life everlasting. He chose you over His physical life and standing up to those who bullied Him and ultimately killed Him.

Jesus died for your sins and your failings. He did this to give you the opportunity for change.

So, as we begin this New Year, I know I want to keep my promises to God. I want to serve Him better. I want to respect and acknowledge His love for me. It’s hard, but because of His love, I know that I can change and be the person GOD created me to be.

---

Dear Heavenly Father,

I praise You for Your love, Your creation, Your presence in my life.
I am blessed with the opportunity praise and know You. 
I ask for Your forgiveness for my many sins and
my failings to do Your will.
Father, give me and others guidance.
We need help in this new year.
We need help as we become rivers in the desert of our world.
We need courage to stand strong.
We need strength and love.
We need compassion and mercy
for others and for ourselves
as we become those whom
You created us to be.

Guide us in YOUR WILL
Help us to bless others and
be the salt and light of this dark world.

In the holy name of Jesus, our Messiah
Amen.
Shalom.