Scripture Reading — Matthew 7:24-27Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.— Matthew 7:24-25When I reflect on times in my life when things seemed uncertain or challenging, I realize that what truly made the difference was

Scripture Reading — Isaiah 40:28-31Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.— Isaiah 40:31The challenges of life can feel overwhelming at times. I remember when I was faced with a difficult decision that required more energy and wisdom than I felt I had within me. I tried to rely on my o

Scripture Reading — Jeremiah 29:10-14“I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”— Jeremiah 29:11I remember a time in my life when everything seemed uncertain. It felt as though the world was moving by on fast

Scripture Reading — Hebrews 8:6-13“I will make a new covenant with the people. . . . I will forgive their wickedness and remember their sins no more.”— Hebrews 8:8, 12I can still remember the first time I really understood the gift of God’s grace. I had been used to the idea of “earning” favor and a

Scripture Reading — Galatians 2:20-21I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. . . . I live by faith in the Son of God. . . .— Galatians 2:20When I reflect on my life and who I once was, it’s easy to see how I’ve tried to define myself by my past, my mistakes, a

Scripture Reading — Romans 6:1-4Just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.— Romans 6:4One of the most powerful truths of the Christian faith is that we don’t have to stay the same. Through Jesus, we’ve been given the gift of new life—right he

Scripture Reading — Psalm 118:24-25This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. (NRSV)— Psalm 118:24Some mornings don’t feel worth rejoicing over. The weight of yesterday’s worries or the dread of today’s challenges can steal our joy before the day even begins. But Psalm