As we enter a New Year, it perhaps should be expected that we may encounter a “new normal” along the way. We might ask….What is “normal” anyway? The dictionary indicates it means conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected. This would possibly than mean that a “new normal” would be a new standard, perhaps unusual, out of the ordinary, not expected. It could be looked upon as a renewal in our lives or something that has occurred that we must adjust to.
The New Year always seems to give us a chance to contemplate renewal and change in our lives physically, mentally, relationally, and spiritually. I see renewal as a re-freshening or revitalizing of the Spirit. It’s almost as if we have an inner-driven desire for renewal at the beginning of a new year. A chance to start over and write resolutions. A new year may also involve new normals. It may require a different lifestyle and new routines, both of which can be frightening, and, at the same time, exciting.
On one hand … what better time to make changes and new routines than the beginning of a new year. You have a whole new 365 days ahead of you to explore options and do things you may have always wanted to do but have never attempted to do nor ever dreamed of doing.
On the other hand … life also can bring on unexpected changes forcing us into a whole “new normal” in life. Changes we didn’t ask for and perhaps didn’t expect nor want, but occurring and forcing us to adjust to a new and different routine.
If we remember God has plans for every aspect of our life, we can view planned (and unplanned) changes as a good thing toward what God has mapped out for us throughout our life … perhaps situations to make us stronger or situations that draw us closer to Him. If we place our complete trust and faith in the plans God has for us, we can be thankful, fully trust, and truly appreciate all that “new normals” can bring to our life … whether it’s celebrations, memorable milestones, unexpected interactions with others and new friendships, but may also involve health issues, career changes, relational concerns, the passing of loved ones, etc.
Life is full of unexpected changes and surprises, and I pray that each of us grasp the full impact of what new normals can mean for us, but also grasp the importance of our trust and faith in our Heavenly Father, always knowing He has loving and caring plans for each of us!
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