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Happy New Year! It seems like December zipped by with hardly an extra moment to sit down and write. But, I love a fresh start. That’s probably one reason why I change out my home decorations seasonally. And today, the winter ones found their places throughout the house.

For the past couple of years I have chosen words for the year. HOPE was my word for 2013, and JOY for 2014. As I prayed and thought about what I would like to receive from the Lord this year, the word GRACE seemed to be what God was telling me.

But it is not just about receiving His marvelous grace, as wonderful as that is. It is also showing that same grace to those I meet in my daily walk — from family and friends, to the grocery store clerk, the appliance repair man, even the car that cuts me off on the highway.

As I thought about grace, I wondered exactly what the definition was:

A prominent Old Testament word describing God’s grace is chesed. This word speaks of deliverance from enemies, affliction, or adversity. It also denotes enablement, daily guidance, forgiveness, and preservation.

The New Testament word is Charis. It focuses on the provision of salvation.

I’m so grateful for the grace God shows me each and every day. My prayer will be to show that same grace to others.

Did you choose a verse or a word for the year?