For I know well the plans I have in mind for you—oracle of the LORD—plans for your welfare and not for woe, so as to give you a future of hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 NABRE)
Happy New Year! The Lord God himself promises his people a future of hope! Even when we struggle with seemingly hopeless circumstances, he has already made a plan for us which is for our benefit, not our harm.
In this new year, let's be aware. Let's notice those times when we feel hopelessness descend over us. Let's pay attention to those times when we forget heaven's perspective because we are focusing so much on our earthly situations. And let's be honest with ourselves when we feel despair setting in.
And in the very first moment we notice these evils chasing us--hopelessness, distractions and despair, let's breathe a prayer for help. Let's ask for the quick return of hope, right perspective, and comfort.
Lord, thank you for the hope and comfort you provide to all who ask for it. Keep me mindful of your boundless mercy. And when your will allows me to confront difficulties I would rather not face, remind me of how you suffered and even died for me, so that I might offer my own suffering for the benefit of others, and so that I will lean into you for support and strength.
Today, I will pray for world peace, with the entire Church, to Jesus who is the Prince of Peace.
Mary, Holy Mother of God, pray for us.
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