In the book of Proverbs, Solomon wrote “There’s nothing new under the sun.” But the Bible also tells us that the Lord’s mercies are new every morning, that believers are a new creation, that God has established a new covenant with his children, etc. What gives?
It must be that what the Bible calls new are realities found somewhere other than under the sun. They exist in a realm that is spiritual, not physical.
Looking out on a clean 12-month calendar, it’s easy to ponder all the newness ahead. I might consider or set goals involving new accomplishments, new possessions, new experiences. Businesses and other organizations (including religious ones) contemplate new programs, buildings, activities, and events. But is any of that new?
If I want to know what’s new, I think I should focus on different areas. Like new depths in relationships, kindnesses, ways to show grace to my brothers and sisters, heights of worship, and the like… none of which have to do with anything under the sun. Instead, they reside in that secret place where God and man intersect, and where all things have become new.
Happy new year.
“Therefore every teacher of the law who has become a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old” — Matt 13:52
The old things don’t ever seem to go away! Thankfully, God crowns them with His new things, which gives them meaning or at the least makes them bearable. Bring on the new year, Lord, but stay nearby, please.
I like that “where God and man intersect” – nicely said.