THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31
1 John 2:18-21; Psalm 96; John 1:1-18
"Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all you lands.
Sing to the LORD; bless his name; announce his salvation, day after day." (Psalm 96:1-2)
In this Octave of Christmas, and as we celebrate New Year's Eve, there is an invitation for each of us to pause and prayerfully consider this threshold moment.
This day that ends the year is a time to reflect on what was – celebrations, tears, hopes, fears, joys and hurdles we overcame. Where and how did we experience God? What were the graces we experienced?
As we step into something new, what is emerging in us? What "new song" do we want to sing to the Lord? How might we announce His salvation, day after day?
In this threshold moment between two years, how can we prepare ourselves to be people of God's peace and love? How can we open our hearts to God's care in the suffering around us that binds us as brothers and sisters – building God's Kingdom of Peace?
Amy Marcum, MA, BCC
Chief Mission Operations Officer
Bon Secours Mercy Health
Pause
Happy New Year!
Pray
God of the Universe, Creator of Light and Dark: You have formed us together as one body to proclaim Your peace. Draw us beyond our own narrowness to recognize Christ within ourselves and one another. Help us to choose unity – humility over pride and patience over anger. Make in us Your dwelling place, O God, that we may be worthy builders of Your Kingdom and true instruments of Your grace. Amen.