John 1:16 “From his fullness we have all received grace upon grace.” NRS

With celebrations of red and green packed away and the New Year’s Eve countdown shouted in unison, the season of fun, food, friends, and frivolity comes to an end. Now’s the time to focus on Resolutions.

Truth be told, it is not my favorite thing. I even prefer Groundhog’s Day to New Year’s Day. It is difficult to enjoy any holiday that comes with a homework assignment! However, after much introspection, my New Year’s Resolution is made: I resolve to be like my stretchy pants.

I hold high regard for my yoga pants, having lived in them since the pandemic began. But their true benefit is indisputable this holiday season where after a month of grazing, consuming, devouring, nibbling, and overindulging, those yoga pants are the only item in my closet continuing to comfort me. They overlook my indiscretions of indulgence. They forgive the bulges I now regret. They sympathize with my waistline which is no longer as it should be. They adapt to meet me in whatever state I am now. They never gripe nor complain, yet patiently wait for me to find the strength to recover from my recklessness and thoughtlessness. My yoga pants offer me grace without judgement.

So, this year, I resolve to imitate my stretchy pants and offer abundant grace. I will choose to forgive indiscretions. I will attempt to sympathize with the struggles of others. I will offer comfort to those hurting. And I will suspend judgement of those undergoing difficulties. This season of merriment has revealed the grace of my stretchy pants to be extravagant. But even more lavish is the grace of our God.

Father God, strengthen us toward generous grace this coming year.

Blessings,

Rita Cochrane

Here is a small sample of the many verses of God’s grace. Add to this list and stand amazed at His abundance of goodness towards us.

Ephesians 2:8

2 Corinthians 12:9

Romans 6:14