Monday, January 5, 2026

Opening Scripture

“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.” Psalm 1:1-3

Opening Prayer

Gracious Heavenly Father, you are holy and exalted! May your kingdom come and your will be done in my life, home, and community just as it is in heaven. Help me to trust you today to meet all of my needs. Help me to forgive others just as you have forgiven me. Help me to resist temptation and overcome the evil one. For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

Daily Bible Reading

Matthew 5:1-12

Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them. He said:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Reflection  

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus describes the counter-cultural identity and values of the citizens of his kingdom. The “beatitudes” make the shocking declaration that true, lasting happiness comes from being humble, gentle, vulnerable, godly, and compassionate. How very opposite of the kingdoms of this world! The only way to become this kind of person is to let the Spirit of God transform you to be more like the Son of God: King Jesus.

Flourishing Habit

Happiness and Life Satisfaction

According to “The Happiness Expert,” Gretchen Rubin, around 40% of our behavior is repeated daily, so when we change our habits, we change our lives. She recommends 3 steps as part of “The Happiness Project.”

Step 1: ask yourself 2 questions

• What do I want more of in my life?
  • ex: better relationships, better health, better finances
• What do I want less of in my life?
  • ex: anger, guilt, boredom, loneliness, debt

Step 2: set a specific goal for each area

• What will you do to add or increase?
  • ex: regular exercise, prayer/confession, lunch with a friend
• What will you do to subtract or take away?
  • ex: mindless scrolling, junk food, foolish spending

Step 3: start now

• The change beings immediately!
  • reframe the next meal, work/study break, conversation
• Success breeds success.
  • accomplishment is motivating

Remember: nothing changes until something changes!