It is amazing how quickly this year has passed. This year has been a year of many challenges but a lot more blessings.  Our families have been able to navigate the Coronavirus pandemic, the financial challenges of the economy, natural disasters in, almost every section of our country, and a renewed sense of our faith in God. On this first day of the Year, the scriptures remind us that we are blessed.

Mary, the mother of Jesus is presented to us as a model of obedience and trust. Mary’s joy is in glorifying the Lord. The “Magnificat” says “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my Spirit rejoices in God my Savior. tells the story.” On this first day of the year, we are challenged to give God glory no matter what’s going on in our lives. We have made it to this point in our lives because of our faith. While we journey in this life, we will encounter difficulties, pain, disappointment, and even hatred. Mary’s response to us is that even though we experience these things, we will still encounter, joy, peace, love, and the promises made to us by her son, Jesus. 

To make it clear that God’s blessings are always with us, the first scripture reading from the Book of Numbers offers us the Blessing of Aaron. “May the Lord bless you and keep you...” God’s blessings continue to rest among us. With deep faith and strong conviction, we continue to receive God’s blessings. It is not by accident that scriptures on this first day of the New Year are about making sure that we receive and reflect on how blessed we are because of Christ dwelling among us. The model and witness of Mary further affirm God’s love for us through all generations.

May this New Year bring us Peace and happiness. May sickness and war cease. May we know that we can have faith in God’s promises no matter what else is going on in our lives. As we look over our life and reflect on how far we have come, we will know that we have been blessed. May all who are suffering this day or any day, find the comfort and support that they need to strive. Because we know that we are blessed, let us be a blessing to one another.