Intentionality and Love – St. Nick’s News Jan 10, 2024

Full St. Nick’s News January 10, 2024

Dear Friends,

Last week was so inspiring and fun as we chose our Epiphany Star Words.

Throughout the season of Epiphany, we celebrate the light of Christ revealed to the world. As part of our spiritual journey through this season, we are invited to reflect on our Epiphany Star Words, each one offering a word to ponder, pray over, and allow to inspire our faith. I love the originality of the words this year. They come from A Sanctified Art, a ministry for churches to embrace art, creativity, and worship.

This year, one of our Star Words is the beautiful Greek word Meraki. It’s the one I chose. As I reflect on this word, I realize it holds profound meaning not just for me but for all of us.

What Does Meraki Mean? Meraki (pronounced meh-rah-kee) is a word that doesn’t have a direct translation in English, but its meaning is deeply rich. It refers to doing something with soul, creativity, or love—to put something of yourself into your work, your actions, or your creations. It’s about pouring your heart and spirit into what you do, no matter how big or small.

How Meraki Inspires Us. In the context of our faith, Meraki challenges us to approach every task and ministry with love and intentionality. Whether we are serving in the church, reaching out to our neighbors, or caring for our families, Meraki invites us to put our hearts into everything we do. It encourages us to give of ourselves fully, recognizing that every act—no matter how ordinary—can be an offering to God.

As we move through the season of Epiphany, I wonder how we can bring Meraki into our lives. How can we pour our soul and creativity into our worship, our community, and our relationships? In what ways can we serve with more love and dedication, allowing God’s light to shine through us?

May the word Meraki inspire us to live each day with purpose, joy, and the deep knowledge that everything we do can be an act of love and worship.

God’s Peace, Love, and Blessings,
Beth+