Meditation

Read Psalm 139:7-18 —Psalm 139:14 (NRSV)

The psalmist wrote, “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works.”

It’s that time again and I am ready to begin another new year. I have the same hopes for this year as I did for the last one: exercise more, get more sleep, eat healthier food, work more when needed and work less when I can.

Yes, this year will be the year that I make all these changes to improve my life.

But instead of jumping ahead too quickly, I have decided to take some time to look back on this past year and celebrate my accomplishments. I suffered some real hardships and disappointments, but I made it through another year and grew from my adversities. Of course I can always improve and each year I make resolution to be better. But I also know that I am a beloved child of God, who loves unconditionally. Nothing I can do will make God love me more or less.

So, as I look forward to the beginning of a new year, I am filled with new hope, expectations—and resolutions. And, as I look back on the past year, I celebrate my life and all that have experienced, knowing that God has been with me through it all.

Prayer—Dear God, help us to remember that we are your beloved children and that we can spread that love to all your children. Amen.

Thought for the Day—God’s love frees me to celebrate life with gratitude.

Andrea Woronick (Connecticut)