Celebrating the God Who Makes All Things New

As the year ends, we can rejoice in the God who makes all things new, letting go of the past and trusting Him with the future.

“He who sits on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’”—Revelation 21:5 NASB

Born in Somersby, Lincolnshire, England in August 1809, Alfred, Lord Tennyson was the fourth of 12 children. Although his father was a minister, Tennyson’s home life was difficult. A precocious child, he began writing poetry as a teenager, becoming one of the most admired poets of his age. His religious upbringing provided a foundation, and he remained passionate about his faith.

Facing the end of the year in 1850, Tennyson wrote a poem that is the source of the hymn “Ring Out the Old, Ring In the New.” Looking back, he was ready to let go of the past. He was also ready to celebrate the start of something new.

Although he could look back on sad experiences, he was ready to focus on the future and “ring out the grief that saps the mind.” He committed himself to “ring out false pride in place and blood, the civic slander and the spite; ring in the love of truth and right, ring in the common love of good.” His prayer was to “ring out the darkness of the land, ring in the Christ that is to be.”

As you approach the end of one year and the beginning of another, remember that you serve the God of all creation—the God who says He is “making all things new.” Instead of dwelling on the past or the dark things of life, commit your future to God and celebrate His goodness.

Reflection Question: What new thing are you trusting God to do this coming year?