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The New Year gives the opportunity for a fresh start - as individuals, as churches, and as a community.
At the individual level, it is an opportunity to renew hope and commitment. God alone is Lord of history, politics and life. Our times are in his hands. The world, including our own little corner, is in his control. His perspective is re-assuring, his Son is alive, his Word is powerful, his grace is sufficient. Let us pray and work that his will 'be done on earth, as it is in heaven'.
At the church level, it is an opportunity for local congregations to resolve to model the good news of forgiveness, grace, and life change to the wider community, and so witness to the hope and peace that only God can give in Jesus Christ. Let congregations show by the warmth of their welcome and fellowship, the relevance of of their outreach and ministry programmes, and the reality of their worship and prayer, that people matter to God. Local congregations who do this are the hope for Ireland.
At the community level, it is an opportunity for everyone to resolve that our society will not be 'a cold house' for anyone, but rather an inclusive, diverse and relaxed place where people are treated with respect, no matter what their political or religious beliefs. People matter - all people - including people who differ from us, whether the differences have to do with culture, identity, politics or theology. We don't have to agree about everything, but we do have to live together. It is important in the coming year that there is a much greater recognition that good relationships matter, at every level."
Alastair Dunlop
Issued by Stephen Lynas, Presbyterian Information Services. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
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