It is hard to believe that another year has passed us by and 2023 is just about upon us. Often at the beginning of the year we look back at our lives and find it hard to believe just how fast time passes us by. Our hair a little more gray, our kids a little older, and our memories a little shorter.

As you begin thinking of the New Year don’t just be thinking about putting off a few pounds, but consider putting on a greater amount of spiritual strength in the Lord. At The Chapel it is our practice to take Communion together at the beginning of each month. This allows for each of us to take a few moments to begin examining our lives and consider areas where we might need to repent and areas where we can rejoice over growth.

Below you will find a few suggestions for examining yourself as you approach communion this Sunday.

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 1:3-14

Personal Exaltation and Examination:

Consider all the areas God has blessed you through his “beloved” that are listed in the Scripture text above.  

Personal Prayer:

Spend some time rejoicing over what God has given to you and spend time thanking him for the love he has shown to you.

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 13

Personal Exaltation and Examination:

Read the Scripture passage and consider if there are people in your life you are refusing to love the way God has loved you.  Examine the relationships (Marriage, Family, Friendships, Church) God has given in your life and reflect on ways love could enhance or unify these relationships.

Personal Prayer:

Pray that God will help you love like Christ!

Scripture Reading: Luke 19:28-48

Personal Exaltation and Examination:

Reflect on the Triumphal entry and consider Jesus compassionate response to the people he came to save.  Ask yourself, do you have this kind of compassion to those around you whom Jesus came to save?

Personal Prayer:

Pray that God would help you be a better witness of the Gospel to those around you.