You know how January first feels full of possibility? All those big goals and fresh starts–it’s exciting! But here we are, at the end of January, and let’s be honest–it’s not quite the same anymore, is it?
The early mornings don’t feel as inspiring as they did a few weeks ago. Those bold resolutions? Some are still standing, but others have quietly faded into the background. Life has a way of interrupting even the best plans, doesn’t it?
Lately, I’ve been thinking about Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Its a reminder that what matters most isn’t how perfectly we start, but how we keep showing up, even when things aren’t as exciting anymore.
Take my goals, for example. That ambitious daily workout routine? It’s turned into “let’s just take a walk when we can.” My journal has gaps where there were supposed to be daily entries. And honestly? That’s okay. This quieter rhythm isn’t failure–it’s real life.
Maybe this part of the year is when we find what really matters. The goals we’re willing to stick with, even when the sparkle of a fresh start has faded. The habits that will carry us not just through January, but through the whole year.
It’s kind of like planting a garden. It is exciting to plant the seeds, but the real work happens afterward. The watering, the waiting, the steady care. Growth doesn’t always look impressive–it is slow, almost invisible at times. But it’s real.
So, how has this first month been for you? Have some of your goals shifted? Are you finding a different rhythm than you expected? That’s okay. The important thing is to keep going, even when it’s not perfect.
This is where real life happens: in the ordinary, everyday, faithfulness of sticking with what matters. Keep planting, keep tending. The harvest will come.
Pastor Sun-Ah, Morrison United Methodist Church