Immanuel, the God of Fresh Starts​

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By Carla van Eyk

PPL Executive Director

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As we reflect upon the milestones of previous years, such as the overturning of Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022, may we prayerfully “consider our ways” and rejoice in the fresh starts of 2024. Moreover, God mercifully provides us with the Hope of His Promise, “I am with you” (Haggai 1:7-14). Some of the most motivating words to hear in any changing situation are, “You are not alone, and I am with you.” How much more encouraging when the Lord himself promises this!

 

The Prophet Haggai reminded God’s remnant people, who had returned from Babylonian exile years earlier, to resume building the Lord’s Temple with the Hope and Promise of His presence by the Holy Spirit in their midst. Despite the seemingly insurmountable roadblocks, post-Roe, the Lord is re-awakening the Church to remember His covenant faithfulness and stay focused on His sovereign plan unfolding.

 

Haggai was the book of prophecy that the Holy Spirit gently used to awaken my heart to actively serve our Christian community with renewed dedication. I pray that you, too, will hear afresh from Almighty God’s unchanging Word in the coming year. May you pursue the call that He places on your heart to be the Church presently at work in His service, while expectantly awaiting the coming Kingdom where the Temple exists in all its glory, our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

As we fix our eyes on the future glory of the Kingdom to come, may we humbly trust the Lord for His Spirit enabling our ministry this year. Please join Presbyterians Protecting Life in praying for new chapters to emerge for Life Teams. We pray that innumerable churches across our nation will catch the vision to champion a culture of life in their own church bodies and local communities. Reflecting the Lord’s glory, may the Church help others in darkness realize the Hope of the Lord’s presence to redeem and lovingly provide a fresh start.