New Year’s Eve is usually a time to pause and reflect on the past year.  We recall the good times and the bad times. Hopefully the former outweigh the latter.  Even if they do not we reflect in gratitude for the many graces of the year.  It is and was God’s grace that has given us another year.

We look hope-filled to a new year.  If resolutions are in order for us, one resolution that might be appropriate is to look to God’s mercy in our lives and in our world.  It might mean letting go of old hurts that haunt our hearts.  It might mean forgiving that person who betrayed or hurt us.  It might mean seeking God’s mercy in forgiveness for our sins and the hurts we have inflicted on others.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” (Mt.5:7)  “And we saw his glory, the glory of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth.” (Jn.1:14)  “Have mercy on me, Lord; have mercy.”

A Blessed and Happy New Year!