Romans 14:7

"We do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves."

Reflection by Christina Villa

If you've started thinking about your resolutions for the New Year, maybe you've noticed that some of them are depressingly familiar. Lose 40 pounds, take ballroom dancing lessons, and get that tattoo removed. Now it’s December 31st, and you’re no closer to doing any of those things than you were a year ago.

This year, I thought I'd re-focus and make some New Year's resolutions that aren't all about me. You can do the same. Improve yourself by contributing to the common good. Here are some ideas:

•    Faithfully call or visit the person you always put off calling or visiting.
•    Get involved in local politics.
•    Adopt a shelter animal.
•    Donate food and clothing when it ISN'T the holidays.
•    Volunteer. 
•    Leave bigger tips.
•    Drive a smaller car.
•    Follow international news.
•    Vote. Register if you need to.
•    Join the choir.
•    Start fewer sentences with "I."
•    Refill the ice cube tray, replace the toilet paper roll, and don't take up two parking spaces.

Take the focus off yourself and automatically you'll be an improved you. If you also want to cut back on dessert and online poker, it couldn't hurt. 

Happy New Year Devotional Readers!

Prayer

Help us remember to forget ourselves, at least for a while.  Amen.

About the Author Christina Villa is on the staff of the United Church of Christ in Cleveland, Ohio.

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