Dear Jesus,
As I reflect on this year, I am overwhelmed by gratitude for Your constant presence in my life. There have been moments when I’ve felt confused and uncertain about what the future holds, but You have been a constant, guiding me every step of the way.
I remember when I received my very first paycheck, not too long ago, and it wasn’t much. My mom reminded me, “Make sure you give your tithe.” At first, I was caught off guard. I thought, Surely, God doesn’t need this small amount, especially when I have other priorities. I even protested, saying it didn’t feel like the right time to give. But she was insistent.
At first, I admit I was a bit frustrated. I didn’t understand why I should give when my paycheck felt so small compared to all I wanted to do with it. But as I reflected, I realized the importance of faith-building practices like tithing. It’s not about the amount; it’s about trusting You with what I have, recognizing that every blessing comes from You, and nurturing a heart of gratitude. That small act of obedience helped ground me and reminded me to rely on You, not just my own efforts.
This year, 2024, has been memorable. It was a year of milestones—graduating high school, turning 18, getting my driver’s license, starting college, and stepping into adulthood. These are moments I dreamed of for so long, yet when they finally came, I found myself filled with fear and doubt. A year ago, I felt uncertain and anxious. How will I handle it all? Will I make the right choices? Can I truly do this? But through Your grace, I’ve experienced peace in ways I didn’t think possible.
You’ve been there through my big days, and my small ones. I’m grateful to be spending more time with my family than I ever anticipated. Initially, I was afraid, wondering if I had made the right decision staying closer to home while many of my friends moved away for college. It felt like I was missing out on something bigger. But what I once saw as a limitation turned out to be a blessing. Being with my family during this season has taught me to cherish the relationships You’ve given me and see the beauty in Your timing.
Jesus, during this Advent season, I thank You for the countless blessings You’ve poured into my life this year. Thank You for giving me the courage to step into new opportunities and the wisdom to see Your hand in everything. I’ve learned to lean on You in ways I never imagined, and I’ve come to appreciate the value of giving—not just my tithe, but my time, my energy, and my trust. (“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17)
Your love has carried me through every moment of uncertainty and doubt, and I know it will continue to do so. Even when I stumble or I fall, You are a constant, reminding me of Your faithfulness.
As I look ahead, I pray for continued strength and guidance. Help me to trust in You, even when the path ahead feels uncertain or unclear. Thank You for being my constant—my rock and my refuge. At this very moment, as I sit with my family, enjoying the warmth of home and the house filled with the aroma of my mom’s cooking, as she makes chicken tikka and naan.Everything seems so warm and cozy around me. I am reminded of the sweetness of Your blessings. in both the big milestones and the small, everyday joys. You are present in it all, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
With gratitude and love,
Lauryn
Lauryn Singh is an undergraduate student with a passion for traveling, building community, and spending time with her loved ones.