“Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” —John 7:37-38 Thought Of The Day... The end of the year nears. Soon Christmas will be only a memory. Who knows what we will face in the new year? Do we have enough trust in God’s care to face the uncertainties of the coming year? We thirst for assurance. That is the reason newspapers and broadcasts feature forecasts and predictions. Economists, politicians, and health care experts tell us what to expect and what to prevent. Jesus invites us to believe in him. He tells us that when we believe, we will be equipped for the future. Jesus uses the image of “living water” that he had used earlier when he spoke to a woman at a well (John 4:10). The prophet Isaiah used water as a picture of joyful, renewed living, guided and satisfied by “the Lord … always,” “like a spring whose waters never fail” (Isaiah 58:11). John explains that the living water Jesus spoke of is “the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive.” Things of the Spirit are difficult to understand. Does the image of living water help? For the woman at the well (John 4), it meant new life beyond the shame of broken relationships. To Isaiah it meant God’s presence and daily blessing. For us, soon after Christmas and before another year, it can mean that God, Jesus, Immanuel, stays with us and in us—by his Holy Spirit! Prayer... Heavenly Father, As we come before you in prayer, we are reminded of your promise to satisfy our needs in a sun-scorched land, just as you promised in John 7:37-38. As we approach the end of 2024, we ask for your guidance and wisdom to lead us through the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead. Lord, you know that the past year has been filled with trials and difficulties for many of us. We have faced loss, grief, and hardship, and yet you have been faithful to sustain us through it all. Thank you for your unwavering love and provision. Father, we pray for your continued grace and mercy upon us in the coming year. May you make us a well-watered garden, blossoming and flourishing in your love and presence. May we be a source of refreshment and hope to those around us, reflecting your light and goodness in all that we do. Lord, we ask that you grant us wisdom to make the right choices, strength to overcome any challenges, and faith to trust in your plan for our lives. May we continue to put our trust in you and find our satisfaction in you alone. Thank you, Lord, for your never-ending love. In Jesus name, we pray. Amen and Amen. Enjoy your Sunday Church Services and God Bless.