Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Life is a series of “seasons”.

I’m seeing that just as we have seasons of climate change and varied agricultural patterns, so we have “seasons” in our personal lives. The Preacher of Ecclesiastes marks them by our “times” or experiences such as living and dying, weeping and laughing, and embracing and refraining from embracing. I recognize that as we adjust to these seasons in our lives we grow and mature.

Lord, help me in this New Year to learn each day some thing about the season I am presently in. May I welcome your work of grace in me in the midst of this particular season. And may I respond in worship, trusting your providence and good Spirit to lead me through it. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.

Luke 1:15. John the Baptizer was filled with the Holy Spirit “from the womb.”

Lord, as he grew up, he grew into the Call you had on his life. Help me understand and welcome your Call in my life. Help me see beyond the formal Call of my career to the heart Call of influence in the name of Christ and for the sake of others. Let me be still enough  -  and observant enough  -  to discern your Call.

May I hear your Call as I read the Scriptures this year, as I perceive the needs of those around me, and as I recognize the uniqueness of my gifts. And may my obedience to your Call be a response of gratitude because of the gospel. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.