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New every morning is your love, great God of light, and all day long you are working for good in the world. Stir up in us desire to serve you, to live peacefully with our neighbors and all your creation, and to devote each day to your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

"A Liturgy for Morning Prayer," Upper Room Worshipbook

Used by permission from the Book of Common Worship, © 2018 Westminster John Knox Press. All rights reserved. This prayer appears in “A Liturgy for Morning Prayer” in Upper Room Worshipbook.

 

Today’s Reflection

On Epiphany (January 6), the celebration of Christmas comes to an end with the visit of the magi to the Christ child. … Epiphany, a word meaning manifestation, ushers us into a season when we look at the way God has entered the world, reaching out to all nations and all peoples. From the poor shepherds to the magi from the East, God beckons. During the Sundays after the Epiphany, the common lectionary (a list of readings for each Sunday of the year on a three-year cycle) celebrates the visit of the magi, the baptism of Jesus, and the turning of water into wine at the wedding feast of Cana. Each of these stories brings the presence of God into our world.

—Larry J. Peacock, The Living Nativity: Preparing for Christmas with Saint Francis (Upper Room Books, 2018)

Today’s Question

How can you embody God’s “reaching out” in the world today? Join the conversation.

Today’s Scripture

Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
—Romans 15:7 (NRSV)

Prayer for the Week

Creator God, Give me wisdom to learn from the blessings, stresses, and sorrows of all that lies behind, and give me the strength and hope to press on to what lies ahead.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.

Something More

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Lectionary Readings

(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)

Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.

5 Comments

  • robert moeller Posted January 3, 2021 6:08 am

    Action for social justice, the environment, civil rights, human and animal welfare, and sponsoring children
    are ways I try to embody God’s “reaching out” in the world today. Prayers for wisdom and means in distributing the vaccine efficiently, equitably, and quickly. Stop needless dying by following CDC guidelines. Lord, we need You always. Help us turn to You and acknowledge Your ever presence.
    Thank You, Lord.

  • robert moeller Posted January 3, 2021 6:16 am

    Thankful for yesterday’s comments, wisdom, and prayers from Lou, Julie, Jill. You and the situations you face are in my prayers. Amen.

  • Jill Posted January 3, 2021 6:41 am

    I am not sure what “reaching out” looks like in these days. And, now, with school starting back up tomorrow – my time will be swallowed up and opportunities will be scarcer.
    Words are few this morning.
    I am holding you all in my heart, lifting prayers and the Spirit is interceding.

  • Ally Posted January 3, 2021 3:25 pm

    I can reach out via phone and social media in a Christ-like manner. For those who feel comfortable (not sure that I do) there are a wealth of volunteer opportunities. I know one need is food banks and pantries have a great need for donations and funds. Many are low on resources. For those of us not in a position to give right now, the ministry of prayer is always needed.
    My last day of work was Thursday. It feels weird to think I won’t be there tomorrow. I will miss my co-workers. Yesterday, my good work friend called to tell me she tested positive for COVID. I was in her office Monday. I’ve heard and read that reinfections are rare, but possible. Trying not to worry. This week I plan to work on my business plan and apply for some work from home jobs so I don’t put all my eggs in one basket.
    Jill, praying your semester goes well. Still lifting up your family , your former student, and your cheating situation. Robert, may you feel God’s comfort as you mourn the passion of your friend. Like you, I pray for peace and justice, an end to the pandemic, and greater, more rapid distribution of the vaccine. Lou, I’m thankful you had several days of your family being together. Prayers for your daughter as she travels and gets back into school. Julie, I sent you dome links and my contact information. Please know that I lift up you and Megan and your safety. Let me know if I can help. Please convey love to Marcy. To our other regulars, I pray you are safe and well. Love and blessings to all!

  • Julie Posted January 3, 2021 5:57 pm

    I have received nothing from you
    Please try sending email only

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