How are we entering this new year? Are we hopeful? Do we know that God is doing a new thing? God is doing a new thing in Joshua and the Israelites are entering the Promise Land. God tells Joshua, their new leader, 3 times to be strong and courageous. He also tells him to not afraid and that He is with him. As we enter this year are we being strong and courageous? Do we have faith that God is with us? Rahab does have faith, and risks her life to protect the spies Joshua sends to Jericho. Rahab knew God's power and knew that God does what He says He is going to do. In Luke, Mary has faith like this too. As we enter this new year, we can hold onto faith tight just like Joshua, Rahab and Mary.

It is almost 2025! As we start this new year, we get the gift to change our heart and lives. We can have a fresh start. We can let go of any bitterness or unforgiveness we are carrying. We can connect to the deep hope we have in God's love for us. And with this hope and faith, we can then have action. This year we can have the confidence to follow where God is leading us.

The third week advent is here! We talk about joy today, a deep lasting joy. We talk about how joy is a lasting emotion that comes from trusting God. Mary has this joy in her words in Luke 1:46-55- Mary Praises God. Here are some of the things we went through, that we learn from Mary Praises God.

- Mary Praises God first- we need to Praise Him first. We learn in James 5:13, to sing song of praises and if we are struggling pray!

- We learn in Luke 1:49 Holy is His name. We need to know God's amazingness and that there is no one like him.

- We learn He shows mercy to everyone who honors Him. We need to know His mercy and love!

- He has shown strength with His arm- we need to know His power.

- He has filled the hungry with good things- He provides for us! And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus- Philippians 4:19

- Luke 1:54- He has come to the aid of Israel. He sees us, and is faithful. What a gift and deep joy that He is our God!

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never comes to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness- Lamenations 3:22-23

I hope this reminder of Mary's amazing words brings you joy- this season and all year!