January 10, 2023

As you walk around the stores it is as easy to see that we are in the New Year now as it was when we were in the Christmas season. The sweets and treats have been replaced with vitamins and pre-made salads. Yes, the retail world knows us and understands that we all need a break from consumption and hope to shed at least one or two pounds of those delicious treats we packed on in the past few months.

A New Year brings new opportunities. Maybe you, like me, are thinking through how this new year will look different than years past. This year, I want to encourage you not just to focus on one aspect of life. Sometimes we believe that if we could get just one aspect lined up, the rest would fall into place. Instead, this year, try looking at yourself as a whole person. Several years ago during a conference dedicated to those starting ministry, I was introduced to the Wholeness Wheel:

The concept is to view yourself holistically, seeing the way the individual slices interact with and are affected by the whole picture. For example, you might be unhappy with your eating habits, but are you aware that when you reach for that salty snack you are really stressed about something else? The slices of the wholeness wheel do not exist independently from each other, but are intertwined within our whole selves and bodies.

God has created us a very complex people. It would be great if it were as simple as shedding a few pounds and the rest of the stress would leave you. Instead of piling on to your life with another Bible reading agenda, or prayer plan, I encourage you to think through each area on this wheel. Think about the ones you are really good at and others that are underserved. If you find yourself struggling to think about the next steps, we would be happy to talk more about what is happening in your life.

As you navigate through this New Year process, may you continue to hear God’s voice of love and mercy remind you that no matter what, our God loves and cares for you. With that love and care, God will help you see the best you!

God’s peace,

Pastor Tim