Although many of us are so busy getting ready for Christmas that we've not had a time to pause and think ahead to 2016, it will soon be that time of year when we are encouraged to do so. Are there habits we need to cut out of our lives in the new year? Are their things we want to bring in to our lives in the new year? And whilst we can make these changes at any point often the transition from 31 December to 1 January is an encouragement to change.
I know from my own experience and the experiences of many I talk to that when it comes to spiritual disciplines such as prayer and Bible reading such reflection often generates the response 'could do better' and an added encouragement to start again or start afresh on 1 January.
If you're looking for something new and challenging in 2016 here's a year long Bible reading programme from the people over at The Bible Project. I'll let them tell you all about it - they'll do a much better job at it than me.
As they acknowledge, reading through the whole Bible in a year is quite a challenge, but a worthwhile one. I'm sure their short videos and an understanding of the bigger picture will help and encourage people to keep going. But my experience is that when I have attempted something like this with other people I am most likely to make it through Leviticus and Lamentations and eventually arrive in Revelation.
It is also exciting that they are encouraging us to read the Psalms in the way they are supposed to be read - as the prayer book and the song book of God's people.
So if you are looking for a Bible reading scheme for next year - here's a great one. But can I also encourage you to go on that journey with others.
