As we began this new year, this exhortation from Paul in his letter to the Philippians has been my daily reminder and challenge to find joy, to pray, and to focus on the work God is doing.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!… Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:4-8
This new year began with much hope and anticipation. In many ways, it feels like we have waited for the new year to come with the hope that everything will be different, only to enter the year and realize much is still the same. We are still in the midst of a pandemic, political and social unrest is happening and sometimes it seems like there is no way out of this mess.
At Wellspring we will move into 2021 rejoicing in what God is doing in our community. We will stay committed to prayer, not to anxiety. We will focus on what is true, noble, right, pure and lovely. Our STARS continue to make us laugh and bring us joy every day. We are able to offer both in-person and online programming. Our staff continues to bring their best every day. The vaccine for the virus is making its way into our community sooner rather than later. God has provided for us in so many ways. There are so many things here at Wellspring that are excellent and praiseworthy.
So, as we begin a new year, a year that is still filled with many hard and difficult challenges, we pray that each person in our community is reminded of God’s goodness, God’s faithfulness, and his abundant love for each and every one of us.
Much love,
Nicole DeVries – Wellspring Executive Director