Thomas Edison’s laboratory burned in December, 1914. Looking at the ruins the next morning, he said, “There is great value in disaster. All our mistakes are burned up. Thank God we can start anew.”
Jesus came to earth to make it possible for all of us to begin anew. Paul proclaimed, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). That new life begins with being baptized into Christ (Galatians 3:27).
Worldly people, like the frustrated child, say, “I can’t.” Those in Christ say, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Paul explained how that was possible. Despite quite a list of accomplishments in the Jewish religion, he wrote, “But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ” (Philippians 3:4-7).
Reliance upon worldly possessions will not help one start anew. The rich young ruler had done the right things externally, but he allowed money to be the god of his heart. Jesus urged him to sell all that he had, give the money to the poor and follow Him. The young man went away in sorrow. Anyone who would spend eternity with God must be fully devoted to Him (Luke 18:18-27).
Those who have lost loved ones feel all alone. When they start anew, they trust in God’s promise, “‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:5b-6). Those who make the Lord their Shepherd will never be alone, though surrounded by enemies (Psalm 23)!
Continuing to know the blessings of God’s forgiveness requires a continuing walk in the light, which includes confession and the Father’s promised forgiveness (1 John 1:7-9). A fresh start means one is forgiven, despite having felt unforgivable. “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit” (Romans 7:24-8:1).
