My family and I recently took a trip to see my in-laws for Christmas.  It's always a blast to jump in our over-sized vehicle and make the 2,500 hundred mile trek to southwest Texas and back. Of course, seven people being confined in the vehicle for that long can be hazardous to your health - mentally and physically - but it makes for great memories.

Before we started the trip I got to do something that I always enjoy, in a childish sort of way. I got to reset the trip meter! You know, that little black button up by the instrument panel? When you press it, it will bring up all zeroes. Before a trip, I find it gratifying to push that button. I don't know, I guess there's just something cool about starting over.

As I see it, this is also the beautiful thing about a new year. It is an opportunity to reset the trip meter of our lives. As life rolls along with its frantic pace, complex circumstances and the like, we rack up some serious mileage. It all takes a toll. By the time the end of the year comes we desperately need an opportunity to reset.

Thankfully, our God is One who graciously gives us that opportunity.  Throughout the Bible we find examples of God inviting His people to push reset after their lives and relationships have accumlated major mileage and the wear and tear that goes with it.

One of my favorites is found in the book of I John. In his typical black and white fashion, John says "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (I John 1:8-9)

In other words, John is saying that the Christian can experience a spiritual reset when needed. God is willing and eager to "zero out" the previous mis-guided trips we have taken and He mercifully allows us to start all over. Do you need that? If so, get alone with God right now and ask Him to reset and renew your heart, and He will.

  "Lord, I've made some bad choices for which I alone am responsible. I have sinned against You.  Please forgive me.  Thank You for the amazing opportunity to be forgiven and cleansed...to be reset within. In Jesus' Name..."

May God bless you in 2012, Friend.

Dave