Covenant Renewal
Daily Scripture
John 15:4-6, 8
Remain in me, and I will remain in you. A branch can’t produce fruit by itself, but must remain in the vine. Likewise, you can’t produce fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, then you will produce much fruit. Without me, you can’t do anything. If you don’t remain in me, you will be like a branch that is thrown out and dries up. Those branches are gathered up, thrown into a fire, and burned. My Father is glorified when you produce much fruit and in this way prove that you are my disciples.
Prayer Tip
by Jennifer Creagar, Community Assistance Coordination Director
Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, The Message)
Happy New Year! We’ve all been through a lot in the past months, and I suspect most of our prayers have been more along the lines of laments and requests for healing and mercy. As all prayers should, let’s begin our prayers for 2023 with thanksgiving and gratitude. If you are hearing a voice in the back of your mind saying, “For what?” here are some ways to start praying prayers of gratitude and thanks as 2023 begins:
- Wherever you are, look around you in a full circle. What are three beautiful things you see? They can be anything, or anyone, at all. Thank God what you see, and for helping you see the beauty in simple things.
- Right now, this minute, right where you are, where do you see or feel God working in your life? What is good? Do you feel God’s presence in your challenges? Do you feel God’s mercy? In this moment, what can you thank God for?
- Look out the nearest window, or step outside. Take a walk if you can. Again, what do you see that makes you smile or makes you think about the wonders of creation?
- Who are you grateful for today? Have you told them lately? Spread the joy and blessing by telling someone that you are grateful for them.
Giving thanks to God, no matter what happens, pleases God. The One who created us knows how healthy it is for us to focus on good things and thankfulness. It actually makes us healthier and happier to give thanks.
Lord God,
As we begin this new year, help us to focus on joy and gratitude in each moment, enjoying your presence and rejoicing in your love. Amen.
