Photo captured on the coast of Kaikoura, New Zealand while studying abroad in 2015.
On the first day of 2024 there is already evidence of darkness in global news. A 7.5 magnitude earthquake in Japan. New attacks between Russian and Ukraine. A car crash in Queens leaving five people lifeless. In all of the darkness, my heart cries out, Lord, have mercy. Have mercy on our world. Turn people's hearts toward you. Help us to remember that "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:5, New International Version). Jesus, you are the light of the world. As we begin 2024, let us pray for those who have already experienced unprecedented measures of darkness and let the light of your salvation be the hope that we cling to.
As we look forward to what lies ahead in this new year, let all of us who believe look forward to the day where you will make all things new.
Amen, come Lord Jesus.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” - Revelation 21:4, New Living Translation
P.S. If you need some encouragement today, You Hold Me Now by Hillsong United is a song of great hope.
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