We’ve got some exciting services still to come here at Immanuel but as we approach the end of another year it offers an opportunity to think back and reflect. What has 2025 been to you? For some this may have been a year of new people entering your world, new births, new friendships, new work colleagues and relationships. For some it may have brought some painful endings, saying goodbye to loved ones who have moved away or who have died. It may well be a mix of both as the lives we lead are rarely neat and tidy. Beginnings and endings, plans coming to fruition and unexpected surprises, not all of which are welcome. 

When it comes to the new year we often think about turning the page, considering the person we want to be with that fresh new start. But before we do that, what do you want to take away from 2025? Have there been joys you want to hold on to? Are there hurts you want to acknowledge and name? Was there some new learning that you want to take with you? Are there regrets that you want to let go of? Situations you realise need some work to put right?

Perhaps find a moment during that inbetween time, once the Christmas celebration has settled and before we countdown to midnight on New Year’s Eve. Look back and reflect with God on your 2025. What are you grateful for? What disappointed you? Invite God to speak to you as you think through your various experiences. What is that still small voice saying? Where is God offering comfort? Where is God inviting change? Look back with open curiosity before you look forward and your looking forward to 2026 will be greatly enriched.