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As I checked my emails this morning, I came across many messages promoting one New Year's Eve party after another. After reading so many invitations, I knew today's Discipleship Devotional would center around how you plan to celebrate the new year. What will many of my subscribers be doing this New Year's Eve? I'm sure some of you will celebrate the new year at one of the following locations:

  • At home
  • At parties
  • At church

I've celebrated the entrance of a new year at one time or another at all of the above categories. If I were asked which of the three categories I've personally engaged in most, the church would win that race hands down. That should not be a surprise to many, especially since I've pastored four (4) churches over the course of my pastoral tenure. 

If you haven't decided what/where you plan to celebrate the new year, I would like to encourage you to celebrate at your local church because there's no better place to be on New Year's Eve. If you've never attended a Watch Night Service, I encourage you to find a Christ-centered one near you. Personally, I prefer attending the 10:00 PM service so I can be at church at midnight, but for those of you who prefer an earlier service time, some churches conduct their Watch Night Service at 7:00 PM or later. 

How does attending a Watch Night Service benefit you? 

  • Reflect Upon Your Story: Watch Night Service is a beautiful time to think about and reflect upon your life's journey and thank God for keeping you and protecting you throughout it.  
  • A Spiritual Launch into a New Year: Instead of beginning the new year with alcohol, why not start it with God? Base your New Year's resolutions on your relationship with Him rather than on commitments you are unlikely to keep.  
  • A Gathering of Like-minded Believers: There is something special about gathering together with people of a shared faith; a place where it's all about God. 

I'm looking forward to hearing from you before, during, and after the start of a new year. I can't wait to hear about your celebration and tell you about ours.

2025 Copyright (c) Elton L. Young
All Rights Reserved