Always We Begin Again
“The first rule is simply this; live this life and do whatever is done, in a spirit of Thanksgiving. Abandon attempts to achieve security, they are futile, give up the search for wealth, it is demeaning, quit the search for salvation, it is selfish, and come to comfortable rest in the certainty that those who participate in this life with an attitude of Thanksgiving will receive its full promise.” Always We Begin Again, John McQuiston
How do we begin again during times of deep grief and sorrow? The families and loved ones of 179 people who perished in the Jeju Air flight 7C 2216 (South Korea) and 38 people who died in the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash in Kazakhstan wrestle with this question. Invite them to weep upon Your breast for as long as they need without requiring words.
What steps do we take to begin again when we are reminded that life can change in an instant? At least four people have died as a result of tornado-spawning storms that tore through Texas and Mississippi (USA), ripping off roofs and flattening homes. At least 15 people have been killed and dozens injured after a man intentionally drove a pickup truck into a crowd celebrating New Year in New Orleans (USA). And Trinidad and Tobago declared a state of emergency after a recent eruption of gun violence claimed several lives, bringing the country’s murder toll for 2024 to 623, its highest level on record. Enfold and protect those whose lives have been impacted by violence. May they find deep slumber in Your arms.
Where do we go to begin again when there is uncertainty and chaos all around us? At least 71 people have died in Ethiopia after a truck packed with passengers plunged into a river when the driver missed the bridge. A prison riot in Mozambique left 33 people dead and 15 injured, and more than 1,500 inmates escaped during the incident. Hear our plea for stillness and peace. Give us the ability to find solace in a world with so much sorrow.
Who will heed the words and actions of Gisele Pelicot (France) as she waived her right to anonymity and a trial behind closed doors as her husband, Dominique, and fifty other men went on trial for aggravated rape, attempted rape, and sexual assault? Gisele’s courage and determination to speak out on behalf of all victims of sexual assault will be instrumental to survivors in their attempts to begin again. May survivors of sexual assault lean into You for strength, comfort, and healing. Lead our society to see the truth about sexual violence and its impact on our world.
When will we consistently value and honor the traits that President Jimmy Carter (USA) displayed during his life that spanned a century? We have the opportunity to begin again by demanding that our leaders demonstrate compassion, generosity, and love coupled with truth-telling and equality. President Carter, who died on December 29, 2024, lived a life of faith through prayer and action and exemplified a spirit of Thanksgiving. Challenge us to live a life with You as our Source. Nourish us when our energy is depleted. Rally us when we feel defeated. Comfort us when we fall. Grab our hand when we stray from the path You have put before us. Love us tenderly and fiercely and always, so we can begin again. Amen.