2023 is almost upon us. The start of a new year brings the opportunity for new beginnings, a fresh start, at least that is the theory. For most people it is just a change of date marking the passing of another year. Nothing actually changes and making a New Year’s resolution seems futile because, if the past repeats itself by the end of January, or before, whatever commitment was made will already be dissolved; just one more failed attempt at success.

At Clark’s Valley Zion 2022 started with a challenge to follow the Navigators 5x5x5 New Testament Reading Program (one chapter a day = 5 minutes; 5 times a week; with 5 questions to dig deeper into the reading). I have been amazed at the number of people who have faithfully followed the reading program for the entire year! They proved to themselves and to others that completing a New Year’s resolution is possible.

For 2023 I formatted an Old Testament Reading Program based on the Navigators format, with some alterations. My sermons for the year will follow the reading schedule. I prayerfully anticipate an even larger number of participants in 2023. I’m looking forward to exploring many Old Testament stories that will provide a more complete view of the chronological timeline of the Old Testament. My prayer is that it will also allow the readers to gain a better understanding of how the Old Testament provides the foundation for the New Testament.

Today as you consider pausing at noon to Bend-A-Knee in prayer may you ask God to help you commit to reading the selected selections from the Old Testament and that He will provide you the will power to complete the reading schedule. Prayer is not a formal part of the reading program but you can easily include 5 minutes of prayer into your daily routine. May you make 2023 the year to Bend-A-Knee each day along with your reading commitment. The article included in our monthly newsletter, The Messenger, states that 2023 is the year of possibility. I pray that you will take advantage of the opportunity provide in 2023 to make the year a season that is committed toward a closer relationship with God. How different will your life look if you actually follow through with your commitment? Don’t let the opportunity pass; 2023 can truly be the year of possibility.

Stay connected to God & to others

God’s Peace,

Pastor Mike