“O give thanks to the Lord for he is good…his mercy endures forever.”
We are at the end of another year.
“Can you believe it?”
“Each year goes by faster than the next.”
“What will next year hold?”
“Are you going to make New Year’s resolutions?”
“I can’t wait to start the new year. This one was horrible.”
Perhaps these are some of the thoughts you have as you end one year and begin the next.
Your perspective of the year drawing to a close forms your enthusiasm or lack of it for the year ahead.
Let me invite us to end the year with a reflection on all the blessings that God has given. Perhaps those blessings have come in different ways. Here’s a few Scriptures and questions to reflect on:
- What blessings have come in the day to day routine of life? The Lord love and mercy are new every day!
Lamentations 3: 22-24 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.”
- What blessings have come from the challenges and hardships of this year?
Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
- What celebrations did you have this year that remind you of the Lord’s faithfulness?
Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
- How has God grown and developed your faith in him this year?
2 Peter 3:18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
- How has the Lord shown his presence and strengthened you this year?
Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
- List what you would consider the top 10 blessings from the Lord this year. (Remember blessings come in things we consider good or bad!)
Numbers 6:24-26 “‘“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”’
Our family had many celebrations this year…confirmation, graduation, work anniversaries, significant birthdays. Each was and is a reminder of the goodness of the Lord and his constant presence and blessings. As you reflect on 2022, may the Lord bring to mind his many mercies and his many blessings. Know with confidence, that as he has been with you in 2022, he will go with you into 2023!
Happy New Year to all!
Prayer: Lord, thank you for going with us and providing your presence and blessings in 2022. In your mercy, go with us to strengthen, guide and bless us in the year ahead! AMEN.