Fresh Starts (04/16/2025)

Yesterday, I went to the dentist to get my new bridge. Of course, it didn’t go as planned. I’d broken the temporary cover over my back molar and my teeth had shifted just enough that the bridge created from the mold of my teeth 6 weeks ago was off just a bit. The dentist was verklempt, apologizing for having to make the adjustments. When he removed his hands from my mouth, and I was able to speak, I consoled him, “It’s not your fault, it’s me. I could screw up a one can milk route.” As I sat in that chair, I dreamed of the next day, of a fresh start.

It's true. Blessings abound in my life, but it would take a pretty near-sighted person to not notice that glitches, go arounds, and bumps are common occurrences in my life. I’m not sure about others, I am kept quite busy enough navigating my own life. But as I said, the idea of a fresh start helps me to get through often.

I love fresh starts. Perhaps that’s why I love the early morning hours on my porch. Those times offer me a new beginning, a new “try.” That is unless I am still clinging to something. I’ve learned that fresh starts require me forgiving others and even myself. Remember, "Forgive us our trespasses and we forgive those who trespass against us"? Yes, forgiveness of the LORD, of others and even ourselves may be necessary for a fresh start.

“Behold, I make all things new” (Rev. 21:5). I have learned that the LORD can make all things new if I am willing to let go of them – willing to give them to Him. Therein lies the rub. At times I cling too long to hurt or a misunderstanding. Sometimes, I can’t forgive myself for something I’ve done, or worse, for something I’ve failed to do.

As we make our spiritual journey, especially during this holiest of weeks, let us allow our LORD to be LORD. As we prepare for Good Friday, as we set our eyes upon that cross, let us be willing to relinquish those sins we hold – let us seek the LORD’s forgiveness – let us open ourselves to forgiving others - let us strive to forgive ourselves. And let us open ourselves to the wonder of a fresh start.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.