MVLC Church Council Member Emily Thompson’s devotion, “New Beginnings,” for Wednesday, May 6.
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2 Corinthians 5:17-18
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.
Devotion
New beginnings can be exciting and can often feel great. The Easter season is a time for new beginnings filled with excitement and thrill. We get the opportunity to leave the past behind and enter into a new season with anticipation, hope and promise with a new vision. Spring is blossoming anew around us, let us be glad and rejoice!
But for many, beginnings can feel treacherous and stressful. Letting go of comfortable and established relationships and routines can force us to confront anxiety, uncertainty and sometimes even fear of the unknown.
As in all new seasons, our only certainty and security is found in God. To Him, we cling as we journey forth. When we find ourselves in the midst of yet another new beginning, being placed there by God, choose to trust Him no matter what. Know that He has a purpose for our journey, that He is in control and He has a plan. If we remain steadfast in God, we will see his purposes and blessings unfold and be made aware of the abundance of His love.
Song
Made New by Lincoln Brewster. Listen at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jd4qtmDGIWQ
Psalm 40:3
He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord.
Prayer
Risen Lord,
You are full of grace and complete forgiveness. Help us to walk forward from this day into something new. Thank you that we are able to enter a new dawn, a fresh start with fresh hearts. You turn the pages of our lives and help to wash each day clean. Help us to feel that we can learn from the past, safe in your arms and move forward. Thank you for allowing us to write a fresh page each day. Thank you for the price you paid and that we always have a chance to begin again with You. Amen.
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Image: “Apple Blossom on Charred Log,” photograph, 2020, by Teagan Thompson.