My favorite day of the year at church is the day we choose our Star Words for the new year. We celebrate Epiphany — the commemoration of the visit of the Magi to the Christ child — by discovering and following our own stars. As we walk up the center aisle to take communion, we choose from dozens of cut-out paper stars, that lie face down on a table. We like to say that the words choose us as much as we choose the words. In past years, my words have intrigued me, inspired me and even scared me.
This year, my Star Word is “sure.” When I returned to my seat and read my word this morning, I immediately found it empowering and challenging. Like many of my fellow worshipers, I grabbed my phone and did a little research.
Here’s what Merriam Webster has to say:
Sure — 1) marked by or given to feelings of confident certainty
2) characterized by a lack of wavering or hesitation
Hmm. This seems to speak to my tendency toward indecisiveness. At times, I take forever to make a decision. Maybe a nudge toward more readily stepping out in faith?
I like these related words: assured, positive, certain, confident.
“Faith makes us sure of what we hope for and gives us proof of what we cannot see.” Hebrews 11:1 (ESV)
“Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble;” 2 Peter 1:10 (NKJV)
“Sure” feels like a confirmation as I go through a period of discernment. This fall, I stepped out of my comfort zone and taught an adult Sunday school class. I took my novice vows with the Order of Ecumenical Franciscans. I was nominated to be a deacon at church. And I’m sensing a tug toward deeper ministry.
“Sure” feels like a prompting, a what-are-you-waiting-for call. Time to focus on that inner work. A renewed commitment to 12-step work, spiritual practices, prayer.
One thing I’m sure of is my admiration for the ministry of Compassion International.
The holiday season has come and gone, but you can still make a child’s day very special through Compassion International. You can sponsor a child for $38 a month. There are also many ways you can help children with a one-time donation, including critical needs, disaster relief and the unsponsored children’s fund.
What word has chosen you this year? I pray that you experience a year of unexpected joys and a neverending sense of God’s presence!
What an admirable heart you have. This post is not only beautiful writing bur has a reverently beautiful message. Allow your faith to be as sure as your message here. I have not ever read a Christian reflection as good as this. Try using Christian Writers Market 2020 and write steadily to spread this good news you have been blessed with to others. Not that $$$ is important but you may be blessed here as well Give it a go.
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