There is something particularly satisfying about opening a new exercise book at the beginning of the school year.
There is something particularly satisfying about opening a new exercise book at the beginning of the school year.
There is something particularly satisfying about opening a new exercise book at the beginning of the school year. Your name is written neatly on the front, the date is carefully underlined with a ruler, and you promise yourself that this book will remain immaculate.
Then life happens.
The handwriting becomes less careful, something is crossed out and, before long, a mysterious stain appears on one of the pages. Life can be rather like that too. We begin a new year with good intentions: to work harder, become better organised, worry less or be kinder to others. Yet, sooner or later, we make a mistake or things do not go according to plan.
Our Bible reading from Lamentations 3 was written during a time of sadness and difficulty. Nevertheless, its writer discovered a reason to hope:
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.”
The Christian faith teaches that fresh starts are not limited to September or New Year’s Day. God offers us the opportunity to begin again every morning. Failure does not have to have the final word.
If we were unkind yesterday, we can choose kindness today. If we did not work as hard as we might have done last year, we can make a better effort this year. If we have fallen out with someone, we can take the first step towards putting things right. If we tried something and failed, we can try again.
We should not begin the year by placing ourselves under the impossible pressure of having to be perfect. A better ambition might be to become a little kinder, more courageous, more patient and more willing to forgive. When we get something wrong, we need not give up. Tomorrow morning brings another fresh start.
Prayer
Loving God, thank you that your love never fails and your mercies are new every morning. Help us to use our opportunities well, to show kindness to others and to find the courage to try again when things go wrong. Bless our school community and guide us throughout the year ahead. Amen.
