Scripture Reading — Ephesians 2:8-10We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.— Ephesians 2:10As I think about the new year and fresh starts, I’m reminded of the deep truth that each one of us has a purpose—a purpose that was ordaine
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
Scripture Reading — Isaiah 55:6-13Turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy . . . for he will freely pardon.— Isaiah 55:7There’s something powerful about a fresh start. Whether it’s a new year, a new chapter, or a new morning, we all long for the chance to begin again. But sometimes we wonder if God
Scripture Reading — Philippians 3:13-14Forgetting what is behind . . . I press on . . . to win the prize for which God has called me. . . .— Philippians 3:13-14Some memories cling to us like shadows—our failures, our regrets, our missed opportunities. We replay them over and over, wondering what we
Scripture Reading — Romans 12:1-2Be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is. . . .— Romans 12:2Every January, people focus on external changes—better diets, improved finances, new routines. But a transformation that lasts always begins w
Scripture Reading — Colossians 3:12-14Bear with each other and forgive one another. . . . Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love. . . .— Colossians 3:13-14At some point, we all face the sting of broken relationships. Whether it’s because of betrayal, misunderstanding
