We take a giant step forward in Christian devotion when we see it more as a life to live than a time to be observed.
Steve Harper, Devotional Life in the Wesleyan Tradition
Perhaps the season of Advent is God’s way of offering us a time of soul reset. After all, Advent is the beginning of the Christian liturgical year, an annual time to reflect on God’s plan for renewal and restoration through the birth of our Redeemer.
It’s been a reset year for The Upper Room. Upon adopting a new strategic plan to position us for long-term vitality, a fresh new mission statement emerged: “The Upper Room invites people to create daily life with God.” Yes, it’s simple, and yet it is a statement of deep purpose, naming the very human need The Upper Room attempts to address and the single thread that weaves our broad ministry together.
Implicit in the new mission statement is our historic contribution—helping people with daily devotional time—as well as the creative nature of cooperating with the Holy Spirit, as Jesus did, in the shaping of a life with God for the sake of others.
We believe that creating daily life with God is at the heart of being healthy and whole. Through prayer, scripture, and other spiritual disciplines, whether it is knitting prayer shawls, exploring nature, or engaging in community service, each of us will discover the inspiration needed to make a positive difference in the world.
Are you finding time to meet with God on a daily basis? If not, I invite you to pick-up again The Upper Room daily devotional guide, participate in one of our spiritual growth programs like The Walk to Emmaus or The Academy for Spiritual Formation, or simply just be with God in whatever creative way restores and resets your soul. I promise it will make a difference.
We thank you for all the ways you have encouraged us and supported The Upper Room this year. We are grateful beyond measure.
May you and your family experience the great love and grace of God… every day.
Stephen D. Bryant is the Publisher of The Upper Room.
This article also appears in the Winter 2019 Fellowship Focus newsletter for friends and donors of The Upper Room. Click the image below to view the complete newsletter:
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