Welcome to Christ Episcopal Church

I go to the gym about four mornings each week to go running. I’ve been doing it now for 15 years. Each year, when January 1 rolls around, there’s always an uptick in the number of folks who show up at a gym – even at 5am!

Of course, nearly all these newcomers are there because they’ve made some sort of New Year’s resolution. Maybe they want to lose weight, or get into shape, or just feel better. Many of these newcomers “fall off the wagon” after a week or two, but some people are able to stick with it long-term. Typically, they’re the ones who figure how to make small, sustainable changes in their habits that lead to the lasting change they’re looking for. Turning the calendar over is a great opportunity to get a fresh start on things.

In the Church, our new year doesn’t start on January 1, but on the first Sunday of Advent. Why? Because Advent is a season of preparation and anticipation for Christ’s birth. We understand this “coming” in three ways: the physical birth of Jesus, his coming into the hearts of believers, and his eventual second coming—and we are called to prepare for each one. So Advent is a great time to make a “new year’s resolution” when it comes to your faith. To prepare yourself by making your heart and mind more ready to be a home for Jesus. But like any lasting change, our resolution has to be focused on small, simple things. And we need accountability partners. The good news is that others in our lives – family or friends – can be those partners who can grow together with us in faith and support us on our shared journey. So as we move into Advent and toward the Christmas season, here are some ideas for families or other groups to try as “new year’s resolutions” for deepening your faith.

• Pray over your backpack or work bag. Take a moment as a family during the weekend to pray for the upcoming week – teachers, friends, co-workers, and classmates.

• Morning prayer rhythm. Start each day with a simple prayer or blessing before heading out the door. It can be as easy as “Thank you, God, for another day to be alive!”

• Nighttime faith conversations. Make time for a conversation after school or work. Share highs and lows from your day. Ask not just “How was your day?” but “Where did you see God today?”

• Encouragement in the backpack. Slip a short Bible verse, blessing, or note of encouragement into lunches or folders.

• Prioritize Sabbath rest. Set aside one night each week to slow down to gether.

• Serve together. Pick a simple way to serve others.

Blessings to each of you this Advent, and (when it’s appropriate), have a very Merry Christmas!

In Christ, Pastor Aaron Twait