Devotional 12-31-10

Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations.
Before the mountains were brought forth,
Or ever you had formed the earth and the world,
From everlasting to everlasting you are God.

Psalm 90: 1-2

Hard though it is to believe, another year is about to close. As you look back over the past 365 days, do you recall, even a moment, when God was not present with you? On this day of looking back and anticipating the future, it is appropriate that we pause to offer our thanksgiving, confession, and adoration to our God.

Prayer:
All praise and thanks be to you, O God of all generations. Day by day you have shown us your amazing and loving ways. With your generous nature, you have blessed us with far more than we deserve. You give to us not only our daily bread, but so much more. You have walked with us through times of joy and hours of struggle. Your grace and love have never failed us. You provide for us in ways beyond our comprehension and we humbly offer to you our thanks and praise.

As we look over the past year, we must confess our sinful ways. We have acted according to our self interests rather than seeing the needs of your kingdom. In our selfish moments we have thought first of ourselves without realizing how our actions affect others. We confess that there are times when our actions and words have hurt others and you. We have not loved you with our whole heart. Forgive us, we pray. Help us to know again the grace of forgiveness and love which you freely offer to us through Christ.

In this glad season of new birth and great possibilities, we celebrate Christ-with-us. We give thanks that you chose to offer yourself in Christ Jesus—born as one of us. In Christ we see your way and know that we are a part of your kingdom. The wondrous gift of love has been given us. We seek to accept that gift and live in Christ’s love.

In these moments of reflection we bring before you our love and concern for:

• Those who have walked through difficult times of disaster, hardship, and war. Surround them, please, with your love, comfort, and strength.
• Those who grieve. We remember those dear to us who have died during the past year. We name them before you giving thanks for their lives and for their life in you, which will never end.
• Those who live outside the knowledge of your love. Help us to share our faith in ways which will show them the power and wonder of a relationship with you.
• Those who lead us in our world, nation, state, county, and community. Grant strength and courage to them that they may faithfully follow your kingdom’s way.
• Our congregation, the United Methodist Church, and our local church and denominational leaders. Help us to share the light of your love in a world of darkness and despair.

As we close this year and begin a new year, we know that you walk with us. As we look back, we wonder where we would be if you had not been on our side. We thank you for 2010 and look forward to the possibilities and wonder of 2011. Thank you for your abiding presence and power with us. Strengthen us and use us for your work, for we want to be your faithful disciples today and all our tomorrows. In Christ we pray. Amen.

God’s blessing be with you,
Dr. Mark Conner
Western District Superintendent