A new time
by Pastor Jim Strelan
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
To be made new in the attitude of your minds, and to put on the new self (Ephesians 4:23,24a).
Read Ephesians 4:17–32
You more than likely have a will. ‘This is the will and testament of … ’ A dictionary definition of a testament is ‘something that serves as a sign or evidence of a specified fact, event, or quality’ (Oxford Languages). In a will, you signal your intentions regarding your estate; the document is evidence of those intentions.
Our Bible is divided into two parts: the Old Testament and the New Testament. The New Testament begins with the story of Jesus. It is ‘new’ and is both a sign and evidence of God at work in our world.
I’ll admit that I am struggling to understand why this reading is set down for this Christmas week. But maybe it is meant to be a pointer, a reminder that when we celebrate the birth of Jesus, knowing what is ahead – a new beginning, a new direction, a new life that puts off the old and shows itself in a whole new mindset – that makes our celebration even richer and fuller.
Here is Jesus, who brings us God as he hasn’t been known before. Here is Jesus, who comes to bring wholeness and oneness and newness. A new will and testament. One that turns away from the old and shows itself in truthfulness, kindness, compassion and forgiveness.
That’s why we celebrate the birth of Jesus as we do every year. That’s why we hear the same Bible readings, sing the same carols and maybe follow a family ritual year after year. To remind us that the baby in Mary’s womb and the baby in Elizabeth’s womb got excited – because they knew the new thing God was going to do.
Loving God, you sent Jesus to bring in newness. As we celebrate his birth, remind me again of what it is that Jesus brings and to be filled with joy in my reflections. Amen.
Jim is a retired pastor who lives with his wife, Ruth, on the north side of Brisbane. He is a proud and not very humble Brisbane Lions supporter. Jim likes to read, listen to music and play golf. He and Ruth love being with their young grandchildren and watching them grow. For Jim, grace is everything, and he will share that however and whenever possible.
- Click here to read previous devotions.
- We are also posting them on LCA Facebook, making it easy for you to share them with family and friends.
- Sign up to receive Daily Devotion in your inbox every morning. If you’re already doing that, please encourage others to sign up. Click here for the link.
