2009 is upon us and there is much to pray about as we star this year with what appears to be some looming issues: a troubled economy; war in Iraq; violence escalating in the Middle East; and the beginning of an historic administration under a new president.  May we pray for God's guidance and provision in all of these things.  

My good friend Steve Fry wrote something in his Christmas letter I have been chewing on and I wish to share it with you.

As we look into 2009, many see uncertainty and dread. But through the eyes of faith, I trust you will see the hand of the Lord guiding all things - and guiding you. Scripture says that He will guide us with His eye - and there is no greater security than that! So with firm trust in the Lord, we can grasp genuine hope.

"Promise me you'll always remember," Christopher Robin once said to Winnie-the-Pooh, "You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." May the Lord give you and yours that sense of who you are in Him - and thus establish you in a hope unshakeable.

What an encouraging word!
Blessings to you and those you love.

JD+
The Rev. Jon Davis / Vicar