Hey SUM family, Tiffany here!

This year has flown by. I can't believe the year is nearly over. As I sit to write to you this week, I cannot help but think about Rosh Hashanah. I am not a Bible scholar by any means. However, I do know that this time of year, this celebration, is about turning from your old ways and beginning anew.

Are any of you participating in the James Study that Lynn and Ann are leading? Even if not "live," but the play backs? Something really struck me about what Lynn said in the first lesson. She mentioned a story of going to the house of a Jewish person for dinner. She went into the garage to grab something and the light was on. When she was coming back into the house, she turned the light off. The man of the house wanted the light on but he couldn't ask her to sin by turning the light back on. It was the sabbath. This man was bound by the law. She asked us if we could imagine having to follow every command, every law in Jewish custom. How burdening!

This is not what I am referring to in regards to Rosh Hashanah. How beautiful to have a Savior in Jesus Christ that fulfilled the law on our behalf! As Christ followers, we don't have to reflect on how many ways we screwed up and hope and pray that we have done enough good to maintain favor with God. NO!

How precious the blood of Christ! How glorious His presence! How sweet it is to live in communion with Him - sons and daughters. Seated in the Heavenlies! Hallelujah!

I am sure there may be some in our community who still struggle with thoughts of guilt, shame and regret. We do not walk the easiest road. Know this, as we come into this Rosh Hashanah season - you do NOT have to earn favor and love from God. You already have it!

For me, I reflect on how quickly this year has gone and I think, "How refreshing to begin anew." My new beginning is to recommit to God's Word...not just what He has spoken over me through others...but His WRITTEN Word. I could get hung up on all the should have, could haves. But now, now is the time, to begin again.

Is there something in your life that keeps tripping you up? Is there something that the Lord has been calling you to do but you haven't done it? Is there something that He has called you to quit doing? Is there something that you wish you were doing better for the Kingdom? Don't view this as a chance for the devil to "lay one on you." View this as a chance to recommit - to your relationship with Him, your devotion and commitment to Him, your first love and admiration for Him.

I bless you with the highest admiration from God the Father. I bless you to know and understand that you are truly forgiven, valued, loved, blessed, favored, and seated next to Jesus in Heaven. I bless you to know and understand your authority in Jesus Christ. I bless you to know your worth. I bless you to straighten up your crown, take out your signet ring and robe of righteousness from Heaven and wield your precious Heavenly sword. I bless you with strength and stamina to stand in the gap for your families. Interceding on their behalf. Wisdom and discernment belong to you. Filled with the Holy Spirit, you have all of Heaven's resources living inside of you. I bless you to shine brightly, unashamed, unconfused, unapologetic in your convictions. I bless your marriage, your parenting, you household, your job, your health, your finances and your season. Walk in the purpose, plan and calling from the Most High.

Here is to this beautiful season! Let's chat in the comments. Happy New Year!

Remember the word to Your servant,

Upon which You have called me to hope.

This is my comfort in my affliction,

For Your Word has given me life.

-- Psalm 119:49-50