A few months ago, I misplaced a gold-trimmed, hand-painted small covered jewelry box that my grandmother had given me when I was a teenager. It was a family heirloom and something I treasured, not because of its inherent value, but because of the memories it brought of my sweet grandmother. The ceramic box was not where I normally kept it, and I had no idea where to look. A few months later, when I opened a seldom-used drawer, there it was! I was thrilled and so excited that I squealed and cried with joy! My euphoria exceeded the value of the piece, but I had found what once was lost.
That episode reminded me that we have an even greater treasure, and that is our time
alone with the Lord. We might find a material item that has been lost, but if our time alone with God is lost for even a day, that time cannot be replaced.
We have a new beginning every morning. Each day is a gift from God, and how we spend it is up to us. Several years ago, I came across a poem that I have embraced in my heart.
Morning Prayer
God of my life, I welcome this new day, It is your gift to me,
A new creation, a promise of resurrection.
I thank you for the gift of being alive this morning.
I thank you for the sleep that has refreshed me.
I thank you for this chance to make a new beginning.
This day, Lord, is full of promise and opportunity; let me waste none of it.
This day is full of mystery and the unknown; help me face it without fear and anxiety.
This day is blessed with beauty and adventure; make me fully alive to it all.
During this day keep me thoughtful, prayerful, and kind.
May I be courteous and helpful to others and not turn in on myself.
Keep me from any word or deed that would hurt, or destroy, or belittle.
And may the thoughts of my mind be pleasing in your sight.
Lord Jesus Christ, Friend, and Brother, may we know you more clearly,
Love you more dearly,
And follow you more nearly, day by day. Amen.
Author Unknown
May we never lose our enthusiasm for our Savior and Redeemer for without Him, we would all be lost and without hope. God bless you and your family as we continue our journeys of faith. May we all be closer to the Lord next year than we are today. Let the new year begin!
“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the Living God. When can I go and meet with God? (Psalm 42: 1,2 NIV)