Auld Lang Syne

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV).

 

Just a couple of days left in 2021. That is always a little bittersweet for me. I am filled with both feelings of success and regret. There have been those things that were done well and achieved great success; and, there have been some things I could have done better. Either way, as I wrote yesterday, the New Year is a time for a new start. That seems to be the theme of many sources. You may have noticed the countless renditions of “Auld Lang Syne,” seen numerous advertisements for “once-in-a-year” purchases and deals. Perhaps you’ve been talking with friends and families about your resolutions for a new year. And now, it’s here. New Year’s Eve has arrived.

 

Our reading is preceded by what many have called the “Hall of the Faithful.” The writer lists an interesting list of faith-heavyweights in biblical history. These are people who were able to see living possibilities where others only saw dead ends, who saw victory where others saw defeat, who saw what God could do when others saw the impossible. They not only saw with eyes of faith, but they also acted on that faith. Each person mentioned understood faith as a verb. Faith helped them persevere even in the midst of difficult circumstances, like Joseph in Egypt. They were able to step out into the unknown with courage and to take risks, like Rahab and Gideon. It shouldn’t surprise us where this list ends: with “Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” Jesus, Prince of peace. Jesus, Immanuel (“God with us”). Jesus, King of kings and Lord of lords!

 

The lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne” are in the Scots language. The title, translated literally into standard English, is Old Long Since. The words can be interpreted as “since long ago” or “for old times’ sake”. The lyrics are about old friends having a drink and recalling adventures they had long ago. Maybe without the pint of ale, but with friends remember the old times, the victories and defeats, the joys and sorrows; and, through it all look forward to a new year and the journey of life ahead. Know that just like these spiritual ancestors of ours we can be encouraged the One who looks encouragingly back at us, the One who came to die so that we could live with him forever.