A New Year frequently evokes a multitude of emotions, deeply influenced by various reasons based on the season of life one is at. For many, it symbolizes a rejuvenating fresh start—a precious opportunity to release the burdens of the past and embrace the future brimming with hope.
This transition evokes excitement, particularly for school-age children returning to the classroom after a long break from school in November and December here in Kenya.
While children are thrilled to reunite with their classmates and dive back into the classroom environment, they may also grapple with a sense of déjà vu; the inevitability of returning to homework, assignments, and the pressure of upcoming exams can cast a shadow over their eagerness for new beginnings.
A Call to Renew, Transform, and Align with God’s Purpose
For teenagers, the turning of the year marks a significant milestone, inching them closer to the much-anticipated “freedom” from their parents that comes with approaching adulthood. With the prospect of independence on the horizon, they begin to envision a future where they can make personal choices without the watchful eyes of their parents.
This shifting dynamic ushers parents back into the whirlwind of daily life, as they find themselves balancing an array of responsibilities. From managing school fees, ensuring timely drop-offs at school, attending to work commitments, overseeing household tasks, and navigating the heavy traffic that characterizes rush hour, the demands of parenting during this season can be overwhelming.
Repositioning for Impact: Next-Level Ministry in Action
As the calendar turns, it’s not uncommon for individuals to engage in various personal development activities. Many set aside time for crafting vision boards, establishing New Year’s resolutions, and identifying new goals to pursue.
Within many congregations, this time of year also heralds the introduction of a fresh church theme, often accompanied by a dedicated season of prayer and fasting. This spiritual practice aims to seek divine direction, discernment, and guidance as communities strive to advance the Kingdom of God in meaningful ways.
Bridging Hope and Growth Through Faith and Community
On a personal note, the New Year holds profound significance for me, echoing the sentiments found in the biblical passage of Isaiah 43:18-19: “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
To me, the concept of a new year can be encapsulated in the idea of “Next Level Ministry.”
God created humanity with a purpose, blessing us and commanding us to be fruitful, multiply, and take dominion. Each of us is placed in various environments—families, workplaces, and social settings—with specific assignments. For Next-Level Ministry to occur, there must be a transformation through the renewing of the mind, as stated in Romans 12:2.
Additionally, Next-Level Ministry requires the power of the Holy Spirit to provide the wisdom, discernment, and grace needed to progress in alignment with God’s will (Acts 1:8).
Strength for the Journey: Soaring into 2025 with Purpose
This is why I cherish the mission of 410 Bridge, which aims to unite and effectively mobilize the Body of Christ on both sides of the bridge through holistic, redemptive, community-initiated development. Each year, we strive to enhance the pace and depth of development for the spiritual and physical well-being of those we serve.
To us, this may mean several things – exploring new implementation methods, improving existing practices, or sometimes letting go of less effective approaches. Such transformations necessitate a transformed worldview to execute with excellence.
Advancing the Kingdom: A Year of Obedience and Transformation
A transformed worldview gives way to being curious and courageous to change the game while owning it, ensuring we are positioned for significant impact. Right positioning entails stewardship of the right thing, to/at the right place, with the right people and at the right time.
A God-Centered Approach to Renewal and Growth
As we enter 2025, we embrace the message of Isaiah 54:2 and eagerly anticipate what God will accomplish through His people to restore dignity and fulfill purpose, allowing them to walk in freedom—all for His glory.
I believe that now more than ever, 2025 calls for timely obedience to align with God’s will.
Throughout this journey, let us keep our focus on Isaiah 40:31 (AMP): “But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] will gain new strength and renew their power; they will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God] like eagles [rising toward the sun]; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not grow tired.”
