This time of year is a reminder of a fresh start and new beginnings. Part of this new beginning is understanding God's grace. Even when we had fallen short, God chose to cherish us rather than reject us. 

In the Bible the words cherish, and understanding are often linked together and something God has taught me is that we must understand that he cherishes us as the apple of his eye. Recently I came across something that said the words "reject," and "cherish," are antonyms or opposites. To reject something is the opposite of cherishing. God chose to cherish us rather than reject us. It's this grace that changes our hearts and empowers us to do the same for other people. 

Today's communion is a time of gratitude that God has chosen to continually cherish us rather than reject us and we are asking Him to help us understand this and let it flow through us to others. 

Today's Health and Fitness Tip

Ephesians 5:29 says for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church. The world has taught us to treat our bodies harshly, but we are supposed to nourish and cherish our bodies, which means taking a gentler approach. 

I am praying for you.

Daniel