Scripture Reading
     For You are my hope, O Lord God; You are my trust from my Youth.
- Psalm 71:5

     At night we mainly hung out and goofed around, but we did gather the last night to sing some praise songs and share a bit about things. I told them about an interview that I had seen on the Today show with the Reverend Rick Warren. Now I will be honest with you. I like Rick Warren, but at times he drives me crazy. I guess I now understand how my family and those I work with feel about me.

     Anyway, Rick Warren was asked what his plan was for the New Year; if he made resolutions to try to follow. I love what he said. He said that he was going to do what he did every morning when he woke up. Warren said that he sits on the side of his bed every morning and says to God the following words.

"God, today I want to get to know you a little better, and to love you a little bit more."

     Aren't those great words of hope and faith? I shared this with the college types and then asked them to share what they hoped for in 2009. Their responses as always touched my heart. Here are some of what these committed and young men and women of faith hope for this year.

A better focus for my faith. To try to glorify God in all that I do. To find more joy in my life. To love those around me more and to be able to show it better. To be more sacrificial in all that I do. To be excited about going to church on Sundays up at school; as excited as I am when I am home over the summer and at Christmas. To talk to God more.

     Hearing these college youth wanting and hungering for more when they are already strong in faith moved me. I am blessed to know each of them and have great confidence that they will grow the kingdom this year in so many wondrous ways.

     So how about you? What are your hopes for the New Year? What is on your heart? I think I will make a copy of their words for me to try to hold near and dear. Maybe you ought to do the same.

Prayer
Lord, I want to know you better and love you more. Amen.