Beech Tree News Network

I’ve been thinking about the term renewal in the last couple of days. Isabel Allende said, “We don’t even know how strong we are until we are forced to bring that hidden strength forward. In times of tragedy, of war, of necessity, people do amazing things. The human capacity for survival and renewal is awesome.” (https://www.brainyquote.com/topics/renewal-quotes).  During my lifetime, I have seen renewal occur time and again – whether in a small thing or a big deal.

One type of renewal is the resumption of an activity after an interruption. I find that due to interruptions – or being sidetracked, my commitment to certain activities must be renewed to get me back on track. That renewal consists of refocusing on a goal and recommitting to the activity to reach the goal. For example, I am normally a “compliant” diabetic, but since July 4th, my eating and exercise habits have been off. In order to manage my blood sugar, I am resuming the healthy activities that allow me to manage my Type 2 diabetes. This type of renewal is common.

A second type of renewal is the replacement or the repair of something that is worn out, run-down, or broken. Most of us are familiar with this type of renewal. When something bends or breaks, we have to determine whether to repair or replace. Another example of this type of renewal is renovation and restoration. Recently, my daughter and her friend modernized a bedroom set by changing the furniture’s color. It was a task, but the result of that renewal was beautiful, and they enjoyed time together. Also, several houses in Morgantown have been or are being renovated. These renewal projects add beauty to our community. This type of renewal requires effort and resources.

A third renewal is spiritual, mental and/or emotional. This type of renewal is within an individual (and affects society). We know that physical rest and renewal is important for our bodies. I believe that we also need spiritual, mental and/or emotional rest and renewal – we need down time. Isaiah 40:31 (NIV) says, “but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength…,” and 2 Corinthians 12:9a says, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness….’” Spiritual, mental and/or emotional renewal requires us to take a break – maybe a coffee break – and declutter our minds. This type of renewal includes taking the time for devotion and prayer. Based on media reports of world-wide events, many people are in need of this type of renewal. Spiritual, mental and/or emotional renewal is an individual process. 

For me, the term renewal carries a positive connotation. James E. Faust said, “…There comes a time when we need to find some peaceful renewal.” (https://www.brainyquote.com/topics/renewal-quotes). 

Renewal may be a small thing or a big deal, but our world needs a peaceful renewal. Soon.