Turn the Page

Our calendars have reached the end,
and, soon, we'll turn the page;
a new year will begin again — 
time doesn't stop or age.

We may have tried to read each day
God's Word without a miss;
but found that we were — back in May — 
still in Leviticus!

We may regret those pounds not lost,
or books we never read;
or grieve that bridge we may have crossed
with words we may have said.

And we may feel we can't go on
without a loved one there;
whose shoulder, smile or laugh are gone — 
yet present everywhere.

But next year, by the grace of God,
we all can make amends
by tearing down our proud facade
erected for our friends;

forgive the slights of others just
as Christ forgives our own;
lay down our all and wholly trust
​on Jesus' name — alone.

You need not wait for New Year's Eve
to turn the page anew;
if you don't ask, you won't receive
the things God has for you.

So, may the joy of Christ be in
your life as next year starts;
and may his love and peace begin
to mend your broken hearts.