On beginnings
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end
saith the Lord.
In Him all things have their beginning
and no beginning is, which is not in Him
and no end is, which is not in Him
Because all beginnings come from God, who is the source of all Being.
And to renew all Being, all must end in Him.
In a world which is eternal, time is an option which can be chosen, or not, and all things dependent on time are possible. With God, anything is possible. But there cannot be a beginning which is singular for all things: the chicken and the egg are locked in a continuum of reproduction. We live in a constantly changing moment. Past and future for ever elude us. Every moment is a new beginning, a fresh start to the narrative, and with a choice of endings. But all beginnings come from God, who is the source of all.
Once we recognize the authority of God, his authorship of everything, his paternity, we are free to reconsruct the narrative around a new starting point, Because we are his children we can reinterpret our own situation, find a new perspective, restore our equilibrium, rediscover hope. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, he says. Come unto me all who are weary, and I will give you rest.
Once we accept that we did not authorise our being, but that it was given to us, we are equipped to live in empathy with others, knowing that they also have their beginning in God. There can be no empathy for as long as we are preoccupied with our personal identity, our private narrative, our desire to control who we are and what happens to us. We have to want something beyond that.
The Lord also says: I am Alpha and Omega, I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life, freely.
God does not give up. God never gives up. Love does not give up; giving up is not in its nature.
Every moment is a chance for a new beginning, for a fresh start to the narrative. Humankind has the capacity to make narratives, but not to make beginnings, or ends. God is forever resetting the clock, forgiving the mis-steps, suggesting new narratives. God saves, by re-commencing. He sets a new challenge, or renews our comfort, according to need.
Children are particularly resilient to changes of perspective; so we have to be like children to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, to drink the waters of Salvation and reap the benefits of acceptance of God's Word.. Every moment is a new chance to turn to the Lord. He is waiting. Always. What should we be doing?
Here are some suggested New Year resolutions, which you may like to consider:
Acknowledge and honour our Father, directly, in prayer, not just in principle
Live in harmony with nature, not wasting resources or causing permanent damage
Put service of others before personal gratification
Do not impose your view of the world on others, but inspire by your example.
Value others for what they are, not what you would like them to be
If in doubt, turn to the Lord – ask Him : What would He like us to do?
Happy Beginnning of a New Perspective !
Broadcast on RCF Poitou 8 Jan 2023
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