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Focus on Prayer: By the Spiritual Life Committee   

We look forward to “newness” — things that are just beginning and represent a fresh start and a feeling of hope. Yet we are aware that each new beginning holds within it the unknown and the potential for both positive and negative outcomes. So it is with each “new year”.

How can we prepare to enter the unknown of the coming year with a spirit of hope and security rather than a spirit of doubt or fear? The following writing by M.L. Haskins addresses this question:

“I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year, “Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.” The man replied: “Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.” (M.L. Haskins)

These thoughts by Haskins are lovely to reflect upon as we stand upon the threshold of 2012. Although we may not know what the future holds, how blessed we are to know Him who holds the future!! We come to realize that we are best prepared to enter the unknown with His word in our hearts and our hand in His hand; we know that the best New Year’s resolution our hearts can make is to renew our trust and allegiance to Him who said, “Behold, I make all things new.” (Revelation 21:5)

Prayer Focus: Thankfulness for the new life we have in Christ — both in this world and for all eternity.

 Blessings to each of you,

Sandra