...need a fresh start in 2013?

On this last day of 2012, does anyone reading this need a fresh start?  Do any of you need this January 1st to bring a clean slate; a new beginning; a second chance? I sure do.  I have a habit to kick, a relationship to mend and some thankfulness to cultivate.  I need a second chance to show unconditional love to my spouse, another opportunity to speak gently (and with respect) to my teenagers, and more intentional attempts at loving my Jesus, the Savior of my soul.

The good news is that, although God does want all of these intended behaviors to become realities in my life (and probably many of the same in yours), he's not looking down on us with disappointment for needing ANOTHER do-over.  Quite the opposite actually.  Psalm 103:14 says "He knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust."  So, with perfect love and understanding Jesus says "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28).

Try to hear Jesus saying...

• come to me when you're struggling to speak with kindness to your spouse or children,
• come to me when you're indifferent toward a relationship that needs some reparation,
• come to me when that ungodly habit is getting the best of you,

Yes sweet child, come to me - your Healer, your Rescuer and your Deliverer- and I will give you rest!  In other words, I'll help you if you'll let me!

I plan to start 2013 with the same words as King David in Psalm 119:173:  "If you help me [God] I will run to follow your commands." How about you?  Why not let him give you rest dear friend?  He's willing to do it...over and over again.