With the year 2025 lying before us, I am sure that many people have made New Year’s resolutions. Some might be dreading or fearful of the days ahead, while others are filled with a sense of hope for the future. I can’t speak for anyone except myself, but my hope is in Jesus. Therefore, I look forward to serving the Lord in the New Year and keeping Him at the center of my life. This fact alone offers me hope as I look forward to the future.

There are many verses found in the Bible that refer to looking toward the future with hope. Here is one of my favorite scriptures on the topic of hope: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV). When a person faces uncertainties or difficulties this verse serves as a reminder that God’s in control and He has a special purpose for my life.

How are you feeling about the year 2025? Are there any favorite Bible verses that bring you hope about the future?

At Christmastime, there are no decorated trees or blinking lights adorning Amish people’s homes. They do, however, make special cookies and candies as part of the holiday activity. Some Amish will string the Christmas cards they receive around a room in their home, or may set out some candles and greenery. On Christmas Eve, the school children put on a program for their friends and family at the schoolhouse, where they share poems, recitations, and songs. The scholars will often exchange gifts with others in their class. On Christmas morning, the Amish gather with their families for devotions, and then the children open their gifts. In the afternoon the Amish get together for a big family meal. If Christmas Day falls near the end of the week, some church districts will hold their services on Christmas morning instead of the usual Sunday service.

What kind of traditions do you celebrate around or on the Christmas holiday?

The Amish take part in many volunteer activities. In Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, many Amish men belong to the volunteer fire department. Many Amish women make quilts and other items to sell at benefit auctions which help people in other parts of the world, like Haiti. After the terrible hurricane that struck Louisiana several years ago, some of our Amish friends went there to help rebuild. Part of simple living is helping others, so why not devote more time to volunteer activities that involve helping people in need?

Is there anything you’ve done for someone in need recently?