Newsletter January

LCMS Stewardship Ministry: (January)
“And he who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’ Also he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true’” (Revelation 21:5).

As January dawns, the world overflows with the language of “new.” Festive gatherings usher in the New Year, fresh calendars adorn walls, and subtle hopes for better days rise within us. Countless people set New Year’s resolutions, dreaming of a renewed path for the months ahead. Even everyday habits mirror this shift—dates on documents are often written wrong as we grow accustomed to the new year. For a fleeting moment, optimism feels close at hand, wrapped in the promise of a clean slate.

Our eager grasp on “new” talk, however, often reveals deep discontent with the old that lingers inside. We remember last year’s resolutions that vanished after a few short weeks. Plans to shed pounds resulted in gaining more; gym routines gave way to endless hours on the couch with streaming shows. Vows to control anger, drop sarcasm, spend wisely, and commit to worship, prayer, and loving service to God and neighbor faded quickly. The “Old Adam”—our stubborn sinful nature—remains strong in every one of us, defying lasting change and exposing our weakness. We chase “new” because self-driven transformation consistently fails.

Scripture presents a far deeper promise of “new” that rests not on our determination or effort. God Himself declares, “Behold, I am making all things new” (Revelation 21:5). Recorded by St. John, these words are no empty wish—they are divine, effective speech, trustworthy and true. Through baptism into Christ’s death and resurrection, you are already new, gifted freely by the Gospel of Jesus Christ, without cost or condition.

This newness is immediate and real, not distant or abstract. You are new today—forgiven, reborn from above. The old self, burdened by sin, was nailed to the cross, buried, and left in the tomb Jesus vacated in triumph. God’s mercies renew us each morning: recalling baptism revives us; confessing sins and receiving absolution restores us; hearing the Gospel proclaimed enlivens us; partaking of Christ’s body and blood in the Supper strengthens us. These unearned gifts are ours to steward now, as we await the final day.

Yet we frequently stumble in this stewardship. We hoard creation as if it were ours alone, belittle neighbors who differ from us, soften God’s Word to avoid discomfort, and choose ease over truth, reputation over faithfulness, and personal gain over sharing Jesus’ love with the world.

Thankfully, the Lord renews us daily. Last year’s failures yield to a new year; yesterday’s sins to a new day; even recent missteps to fresh mercy. As this divine newness forms us, it urges us to share it—beginning at home, reaching neighbors, and shining through our churches. Authentic “new” talk starts not with human resolutions but with the Gospel’s power. In this new year and every new day, steward this priceless treasure. It all begins with the new creation God has made you in Christ—a promise that is, indeed, trustworthy and true.