The LORD replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14
Heavenly Father, on our mystery-laced, mercy-graced journey between the resurrection and the return of Jesus, you’re always with us and completely for us. We have rest now, because the gospel is true. We will rest forever, because you will get us Home safely. Thank you for guaranteeing we’ll never experience an Abba-less day.
Some of us are walking through stories of friends who have passed, diagnoses that are hard, and surprises that aren’t party-fun. Hold us tightly and tenderly. Thank you for not cringing at our questions, resenting our weakness, or rebuking our sadness. You are so kind, understanding, and patient.
Some of us are walking through transitions, and we feel vulnerable, fearful, and excited, all at the same time. Keep us from looking back, idolizing the past. Free us from looking around, comparing and envying. Keep us from looking within, as though we’ll find our identity and comfort in ourselves. Keep us looking up, at the beauty and grace of Jesus.
Father, some of us are walking in difficult relationships, and we need wisdom, strength, and hope. Help us remember our loved ones are really yours—gifts from you to us, whether they’re walking with you or not. Help us love everyone unto you, with no other agenda.
We praise you for good friends and our “gospel posse”—our closest friends in Christ. In this next season, help us treasure the moments and share our weaknesses, laugh louder and encourage each other increasingly, as we anticipate Jesus’ return.
Above all, by your Spirit and the gospel, deepen our relationship with Jesus in 2019. Restore us to our first love and take us to places with Jesus we’ve never been before. When Jesus is our greatest treasure, everything else gets a new value. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ bold and beautiful name.