Rev. Dr. Derrick Elliott, Pastor, Sun Lakes United Church of Christ
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, voices across the globe will rise in unison, singing the timeless words of “Auld Lang Syne.” With its wistful tune and poignant lyrics, this Scottish classic invites us to pause and reflect on the passage of time, the value of friendship, and the enduring bonds that unite us as human beings.
Last year I chatted with the office staff and brainstormed ideas for what to write about for the upcoming year. My thoughts turned to the lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne.” We sing, “Should old acquaintance be forgotten,” almost automatically, but how often do we pause to consider the relationships and shared moments that shaped our journey? How often do we raise “a cup of kindness” in gratitude for those connections?
At its heart, “Auld Lang Syne” asks us to remember. It is a call to cherish the people and moments that have brought us to where we are today. For people of faith, this echoes the biblical command to remember and honor the ties that bind us. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other.” Scripture invites us to look back with gratitude and forward with hope, trusting in the power of community.
As we enter a new year, “Auld Lang Syne” offers a universal message of connection and renewal. It is a song that transcends the barriers of faith and culture, reminding us of our shared humanity. In a world where differences often dominate the headlines, its lyrics challenge us to reflect on what unites us rather than what divides us. It is easy for us to drift apart from others in our busy lives. The lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne” feel especially relevant as a challenge to reconnect, rebuild, and truly see one another again. Whether through acts of kindness, forgiveness, or simple conversations, the new year allows us to turn intention into action.
For people of faith, Jesus’ words in Matthew 22:39 are a timeless guide: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” This call to love is not limited to anyone’s tradition but is reflected in the wisdom of many faiths, urging us to treat one another with kindness, respect, and dignity.
As we sing “Auld Lang Syne” this year, let it be more than a tradition. Let it inspire us to embrace its message and carry it into the days ahead. May we honor the friendships and communities that sustain us, extend grace to one another, and take meaningful steps toward building a more loving and just world. As the final chorus reminds us, the journey ahead is best shared hand in hand, with the promise of walking together into brighter days: “And we’ll take a cup of kindness yet, for auld lang syne.”
Happy New Year to you and yours!