Renewal

The orangy-red hues of the setting sun remind us that a new day and a new beginning will soon be here as we close out the current day. I chose this "pic of the day" to illustrate the theme of renewal because today I advised transfer students who were new to the university. They had a renewed sense of self as they planned with hope and expectation for the semester that was before them. For many of these students, changing their college will ultimately bring about more change than they could ever imagine. Just think about the new relationships, friendships and networks they will make that will alter the course of their lives forever. Many will soon meet their future spouse through a chance encounter or future employer through an accidental internship.

Each day we have the ability to renew ourselves. We may not be drastically changing the course of our lives, but we can take advantage of having a blank slate each day to build upon. As we start a new year it's a good opportunity to think about where we need renewal in our daily lives. Even a small "mental retreat" on a Saturday afternoon can help us to refocus and identify points of renewal.

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2.

How will you use your new beginning tomorrow to renew yourself?