Did you know that the Kirk was responsible for abolishing Christmas during the reformation in the 17th century?
It was only in 1958 that the church relaxed its ban and reinstated Christmas Day as a holiday! This may be the reason why we Scots make such a fuss of Hogmanay!
As we sit in the week between Christmas and New Year, we can relax a little. The stress and rush of Christmas is over and our minds have a little time to reflect on the year gone by.
Here are a few questions to ponder: What did you enjoy the most this year? What new discoveries did you make? What new people came into your life? What people did you lose this year?
Reflecting and remembering this past year helps us as we prepare for a new year ahead.
I wonder if you still make resolutions. It is good to have something new to focus on.
So here are a couple more questions to ponder: What are your hopes for 2025? What new people or places would you like to see? Is there something new you would like to discover? Is there someone you would like to spend more time with?
As I get older, I notice that time seems to pass faster each year. Sometimes it feels like I have no control over the hours each day. And yet, I do have some control and I do have some choices in how I spend my time.
As a new year beckons, I hope that you are able to use your time wisely and make choices that are good for you.
Happy new year, dear readers.
Reverend Lyn Peden, minister of North Kintyre, Church of Scotland.
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