A New Year in Faith: Trusting God's Plan
As we step into a new year, the air is thick with possibility. It’s a time for resolutions, fresh starts, and hope for what lies ahead. But how often do we approach the year with an open heart, ready to let God take the lead?
Fr. Mike Schmitz, known for his dynamic and relatable reflections on faith, often reminds us that the new year is not about perfecting ourselves but about growing in trust. It’s not about doing more but about becoming more—more aware of God’s love, more attentive to His voice, and more willing to align our plans with His.
When we look at the blank canvas of the coming months, it’s tempting to fill it with ambitions, goals, and tightly controlled plans. But what if we left space for God to write His story in our lives? Proverbs 16:9 tells us, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” This isn’t a call to passivity but an invitation to walk in faith, knowing that God’s plans are always good, even when they don’t match our expectations.
Focus on small, consistent acts of faithfulness. Instead of overwhelming ourselves with lofty spiritual goals, starting with what we can do today: spending a few more minutes in prayer, committing to weekly Mass, or reaching out to someone in need. These small steps create space for God’s grace to transform us.
As we move forward, let’s remember that the new year is less about achieving perfection and more about deepening our relationship with God. It’s about asking, “Lord, what do you want for me this year?” and trusting that His plans, no matter how unexpected, will lead us closer to Him.
So, as the clock ticks forward, take a deep breath, offer this year to God, and step into the unknown with faith. Let 2025 be a year of surrender, hope, and transformation—a year where we don’t just resolve to live better but to love better.
Here’s to a new year filled with God’s blessings, one step of faith at a time.