"Treat Yourself" Series - January 2019

Starting January 13, we will start a new series called “Treat Yourself: Spirituality in the New Year.”  It’s a series about spiritual practices that help us connect to our true selves and nurture our relationship with God.  Each week, we will explore various spiritual practices within a different theme.  The story behind the series title is kind of fun. 

I looked at headlines from last January’s Better Homes and Gardens magazine for inspiration.  The cover, featuring thick syrup streaming over a stack of pancakes, said: “It’s time to treat yourself.” 

Ray and I thought the phrase “treat yourself” resonated with our understanding of spiritual practices.  They are treats, not tasks.  The goal is to indulge in grace, not to feel inundated with guilt. 

Ray connected “treat yourself” with a scene from the show “Parks and Recreation.”  Tom Haverford (played by Aziz Ansari) explains that once a year he and Donna (played by Retta) spend a day treating themselves on things like clothes, fragrances, massages, mimosas, fine leather goods.  Donna says, “It’s the best day of the year.”  

We can indulge in spiritual practices every day of the year. 

January 13 – Baptism of the Lord & Baptism Reaffirmation

Finding Your True Self

John 15:15-16

January 20

Praying

Romans 8:26-27

January 27

Sharing Life with Others

Colossians 3:12-17