Vespers-7/14/2026 A Fresh Start
Lamentations 3:22–23 (NIV) reminds us that because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed. His compassions never fail, His mercies are new every morning, and great is His faithfulness.
As I sit out on my deck this morning, there’s a gentle breeze moving through the tops of the trees. Every now and then it stirs my shirt and brushes across my face. Sometimes it almost feels like you can hear God walking among the trees as His hand touches them, and they seem to sigh beneath the touch of their Creator. Then that same breeze reaches me, and I can’t help but be reminded that He’s here too.
Every morning is a gift. Every sunrise is another opportunity to experience God’s grace and compassion.
Yesterday doesn’t have to define today.
Maybe yesterday was hard. Maybe it was filled with disappointment, pain, or worry. But today is a new day. And when you look back on yesterday, remember this: God was with you then, too. As difficult as it may have been, imagine how much harder it would have been without His presence carrying you through.
God never promised us a life without valleys. In fact, Psalm 23 reminds us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”
We all walk through valleys. They’re part of life.
But even there, the Good Shepherd never leaves us. He still leads us beside the still waters. He still gives us rest. He still restores our souls. And He still comforts us, even in the darkest moments.
So today, take a few minutes to slow down. Step outside if you can. Look around at God’s creation. Listen to the wind in the trees, the birds singing, and the quiet beauty that surrounds you. Let it remind you that the same God who cares for His creation cares for you.
Give Him your burdens today, and let Him replace them with the peace and joy that only He can give.
Let this morning be a fresh start—a new opportunity to receive God’s grace and to extend that same grace to everyone around you.
God bless you today. I hope you have a wonderful day.