Before I do my day, Lord, I fill my cup and the coffee machine with cold water from the faucet; I drink down fresh clean water that comes from Lake Michigan, which You my God created.

In front of the living room window, drapes open wide, I stretch as the sun begins to peak over the neighbor’s pine trees, showing me the colors of the day; sometimes pink from the clouds above the lake six miles to the east, sometimes bright yellow, or today just a lighter gray.

I will my body to move, arms stretched wide, knees bending, back arching, driving out the night-stiffness, always watching the sun move along the unchanging path which You my God laid out for it.

The coffee machine gurgles and steams, the aroma of the fresh brew wakens my senses, the familiar taste a part of the morning routine.

Seated in my chair, still watching the sun, I ask for insight and understanding as I turn to the scriptures and lesson for the day. Ancient words stir my soul, awaken my mind to the reality that You are God, and that everything around me is Yours, You made it, You planned its destiny and mine.

Now I pray. How amazing You are, how I love You! How thirsty I am for You my God, for Your beauty, truth, justice, wisdom, and perfection. How I long for that great day of promise, when all things will be made new, and I will see the light of Your glory in person.

Now I confess my sin; word, thought, action, and attitude. Love of things, coldness of heart, rebelliousness and restlessness, falling woefully short of the grateful obedience You desire.

Now thankful for forgiveness, for shelter from the bitter cold outside, the full pantry inside, life, health and strength, and the coffee.

Now asking; for blessings on my family, for the Church, for our Pastor, Elders and Deacons. Bless my wife, and our relationship. Let Your peace dwell here. Deliver me from the evil one, that lying snake who snaps at my heels every day. Be my strength and my shield. Guide me in the decisions I make, give me wisdom for the challenges of the day. And bless me to be a blessing.

Refreshed, renewed, and strengthened Lord, I’m ready to do my day.