Between Gratitude and Hope – A Message for the Turn of the Year
Dear brothers and sisters in faith, dear friends of hope,
The transition from one year to another is always a sacred moment. Not only because a new page is turned on the calendar, but because our hearts are invited to reflect, give thanks, and renew our commitment. Now, at the end of 2025 and on the threshold of 2026, I invite you to pause for a moment and listen to what the Holy Spirit is whispering in the stillness of this time.
Looking Back: Traces of Grace in 2025
The past year has been a journey of ups and downs for many of us. There were moments of joy, fulfillment, and answered prayers. But there were also trials, losses, and unanswered questions. Yet over every single day, every step, and every breath, one divine word has been written: Grace.
God carried us with His mighty arm and was faithful to all His promises. In the midst of political, social, and spiritual instability around us, we were anchored in one eternal certainty:
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)
We have seen the gospel continue to be proclaimed, souls committing their lives to Jesus through baptism, families strengthened, and both young and old choosing to follow Christ with renewed courage. All of these are living testimonies that the Holy Spirit is still working—especially now, in these final days of earth’s history.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Watchfulness and Mission in 2026
The year 2026 lies before us like a blank book. We do not know what it will bring, but we know Who holds it in His hands. And this truth gives us peace. As Seventh-day Adventists, we live with our eyes fixed on heaven and our hands stretched out to the world—to serve. Our mission is not yet complete. Our calling remains clear:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19)
What do we want 2026 to be?
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A year of spiritual revival – in which we seek God’s presence more than ever and dedicate daily time for prayer, Bible study, and reflection.
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A year of repentance and purity – turning away from compromise, hidden sin, and spiritual lukewarmness, and choosing to live a life of holiness.
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A year of unity in the church – putting aside divisions and working “shoulder to shoulder” to advance God’s work.
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A year of personal mission – where each of us becomes a missionary right where we are: at home, at work, in school, or in the community.
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And most importantly, a year of active expectation – because we don’t just believe Jesus is coming soon, we live like He is.
A Time to Prepare for Eternity
It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of resolutions, dreams, and goals for the new year. But let’s not forget the truth that defines us: we are living in the final moments of history. The events around us, the growing instability, moral decline, and global tension are clear signs: the Lord is near.
That’s why, above all, we make this one resolution:
“Lord, I want to be ready for Your coming.”
Let this be our daily prayer in 2026. Let us live with eternity in mind and the love of Christ in our hearts.
A Word for Families, Youth, Children, and Seniors
Whether you’re a parent praying for your children, a young person searching for direction, or a senior looking back and forward with wisdom—God has a plan for you in 2026. You are called to be a light, to be salt, to be a living witness of His kingdom. You are not forgotten. You are not alone. He walks with you.
In Closing: Live with Hope. Walk by Faith. Look to Heaven.
We end this year with grateful hearts and begin the next with our eyes lifted toward Christ. Every day in 2026 is a new opportunity to grow closer to Him, to serve more passionately, to love more sincerely, to forgive more quickly, and to live with hope.
Maranatha! Our Lord is coming!
May He find us watching, sanctified, and with our lamps burning brightly!
We wish you a blessed New Year 2026, full of grace, peace, health, and abundant spiritual fruit.
May it be a firm step closer to heaven!
