Inspired by a Latin American tradition in which New Year’s merrymakers would stuff dolls with objects representing bad memories they wished to discard and then burn them, the Times Square Alliance in New York City established their Annual Good Riddance Day celebrated at midnight each December 28th since 2007. Partakers of the event are invited to “join us in tossing, shredding, and smashing any unpleasant, embarrassing, and downright unwanted memories”. Just write down what you want to be rid of on the special form then shred it in the special shred-trucks deployed onsite for the event.
God, speaking through the prophet Isaiah, instructs us, Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. (Isa 43:18 ESV).
Dwelling on the past is an anchor that robs us of the forward momentum of faith. Holding on to painful memories, foolish choices, dumb mistakes, bad relationships, and personal grudges pollutes our hearts and has no place in the life of a believer. Instead we must forgive both ourselves and others since that is exactly what God does for us.
When we forgive and let go, we model God’s mercy and reflect the character of Christ. And most importantly we are obedient to Jesus. If we do not forgive men’s trespasses – including our own – our Father will not forgive us (see Mat 6:15). We also protect ourselves from Satan’s schemes (see 2Cor 2:5-11).
So let’s start 2020 by saying good riddance to the ugliness best left behind and instead press toward that wonderful prize Paul writes about in Philippians 3:14.
Lord, by your Spirit, cleanse my heart and mind of all hurt and wickedness from my past. Continue to form within me the mind of Christ. Help me to discard and spiritually shred anything not good and holy. Amen.