Last Sunday we ushered in a new church year with the first Sunday of Advent. Over the years I’ve grown fond of this timing in relation to the secular new year. In addition to our preparation for Christmas, Advent becomes a time to reflect on the past year and to make plans and set goals for the year ahead. Perhaps you have a similar ritual that helps motivate you and keep you on track.

One helpful tool is SMART goals. SMART represents goals that are: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. I set goals in different areas of life: spiritual, fitness, educational, financial, etc. Each year I have a working document, often open on my computer, that helps me monitor my progress. It also helps me realize where I need to make changes.

I want to encourage you to consider a similar practice — being intentional about setting goals in a way that will equip you to grow and develop. I expect that we may have some areas of overlap, such as regular participation in worship at Good Sam. Further, I invite you to consider joining me as I commit to reading through the Bible in 2026.

I did this each year for the first ten years of my ministry, using the “Daily Audio Bible”. At the time, it was a new podcast and a simple website. It has grown and changed and now includes an app and other tools. You can listen to or read each day’s reading in the app or on the website, or use your own Bible. The app includes a rotation of various translations of the Bible.

Reading through the Bible in a year can be an incredible experience. You become immersed in God’s word and the stories become connected. I will write more in the future, but I hope this leaves you time to consider taking on this goal in 2026. It may help to know that it will take about 20 minutes a day. If you do plan to join me, please let me know — I expect to create some opportunities to discuss our reading and encourage one another.

Blessings,
Paul