Rev. Dr. Eural Alexander, Pastor’s “Hour of Power Daily Meditation: Embracing New Possibilities in Faith and Community”
Welcome to today’s Rev. Dr. Eural Alexander “Hour of Power “ Daily Meditation. As we gather in this sacred space, let us take a moment to center ourselves, quiet our minds, and open our hearts to the presence of God. Let the words of Rev. Dr. Eural Alexander resonate within you: “This is the day that the Lord has made; we shall rejoice and be glad in it. Know that this day is filled with promises and new possibilities for your life. So, love, laugh, and live this day out as best you can, and leave the important part of it to God.”
As we embark on this meditation, we reflect on Joshua 24:14-27, where Joshua challenges the Israelites to make a choice about whom they will serve. This passage serves as an encouragement for us to make godly decisions in our love and our lives as believers.
This morning Thematic Scripture Reading comes from Joshua 24:14-27 (NIV): “Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
Then the people answered, “Far be it from us to forsake the Lord to serve other gods! It was the Lord our God himself who brought us and our parents up out of Egypt, from that land of slavery, and performed those great signs before our eyes. He protected us on our entire journey and among all the nations through which we traveled. And the Lord drove out before us all the nations, including the Amorites, who lived in the land. We too will serve the Lord, because he is our God.”
Joshua said to the people, “You are not able to serve the Lord. He is a holy God; he is a jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins. If you forsake the Lord and serve foreign gods, he will turn and bring disaster on you and make an end of you, after he has been good to you.”
But the people said to Joshua, “No! We will serve the Lord.” Then Joshua said, “You are witnesses against yourselves that you have chosen to serve the Lord.” “Yes, we are witnesses,” they replied. “Now then,” said Joshua, “throw away the foreign gods that are among you and yield your hearts to the Lord, the God of Israel.” And the people said to Joshua, “We will serve the Lord our God and obey him.” On that day Joshua made a covenant for the people, and there at Shechem he reaffirmed for them decrees and laws. And Joshua recorded these words in the Book of the Law of God. Then he took a large stone and set it up there under the oak near the holy place of the Lord. “See!” he said to all the people. “This stone will be a witness against us. It has heard all the words the Lord has said to us. It will be a witness against you if you are untrue to your God.”
Our Meditation Focus invites you to consider the following themes from Joshua’s challenge that can guide your journey toward spiritual growth and healing in relationships.
Renewal and Hope -
Take a deep breath and reflect on the promise of today. Each morning is a gift, offering new opportunities to embrace God’s love and grace. What does it mean for you to view today as a fresh start? How can you open your heart to the possibilities that God has in store for you?
The Power of Family and Community -
Consider the importance of community in your spiritual journey. Reflect on the relationships that uplift you, those who encourage you to grow in your faith. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 that we are all part of one body. How can you contribute to the strength of your community? Perhaps there are ways you can support others, just as they support you.
The Power of Reconciliation and Healing -
Now, think about any relationships in your life that may need healing. Are there unresolved conflicts or misunderstandings? Jesus taught us the importance of reconciliation, urging us to seek peace with one another. As you meditate on this, ask God to guide you in seeking forgiveness, both for yourself and for others. What steps can you take today to mend a broken relationship?
The Power of Emotional, Cognitive, and Spiritual Growth -
Reflect on the interconnectedness of your emotional, cognitive, and spiritual well-being. How do your thoughts and feelings shape your spiritual journey? Engage in self-reflection, allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal areas where you need growth. Remember that this journey is ongoing, and each step you take brings you closer to God.
The Power of Active Engagement in Faith -
Meditate on your current faith practices. Are they nourishing your spirit? Consider incorporating new practices that resonate with you—whether it’s prayer, scripture reading, or community service. Engaging actively in your faith can deepen your relationship with God and inspire those around you.
The Power of Accepting Personal Responsibility -
Embrace the idea of personal responsibility in your spiritual journey. Reflect on how you can take ownership of your growth. Joshua’s challenge reminds us that we must choose whom we will serve. Are you ready to make a commitment to serve the Lord wholeheartedly? Who in your life can you support on their journey? How can your actions reflect your faith and commitment to reconciliation?
Let us close with this point to ponder and Reflect on-
As we draw our meditation to a close, remember the words of Rev. Dr. Eural Alexander: "This day is filled with promises and new possibilities." Embrace this truth as you go about your day. Let it inspire you to love deeply, to laugh freely, and to live purposefully, trusting that God has great things in store for you.
Let us pray together: Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, thankful for the gift of this day. We thank You for the promises and new possibilities that lie ahead. Help us to embrace each moment, to seek reconciliation in our relationships, and to grow in our faith.
Guide us as we navigate the complexities of our lives, granting us the wisdom to support one another in love and understanding. May Your Holy Spirit fill us with courage and strength as we strive to be beacons of hope within our families, communities, and beyond.
Lord, we ask for healing where there is hurt, peace where there is conflict, and unity where there is division. Help us to reflect Your love in our actions and words as we journey together in faith.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Lastly, before you close out today we invite you to join us at New Light Family Christian Center, located at 4100 West McNichols Rd., Detroit, MI 48221. Our doors are open, and we would love for you to be part of our community, where we grow together in faith and support one another in our spiritual journeys.
If you would like to reach out or have any questions, please contact us at Newlightfamilychristiancenter@gmail.com our website is NewLightFCC.com, or call us at (313) 340-9446. We are eager to hear your thoughts on the “Hour of Power” Daily Meditation and how it is assisting you in your daily pursuit to grow closer to the Lord and deepen your spiritual formation.
Thank you for joining us today. May you embrace this day with the understanding that it is filled with God’s promises and possibilities. Love, laugh, and live this day to the fullest, trusting that God is with you every step of the way. God bless you!
