Photo Credit: blmiers2, flickr creative commons
I have been privileged to go on several cruises in the past few years and sea-going vessels are nothing short of amazing. They are majestic and sophisticated as they are navigated through the ocean water, seemingly unaffected by the currents and movements of the waves. And inside they are even more glorious. Marble floors, grand chandelier-laden dining rooms, huge theaters, and the most sophisticated food anyone could experience. They are vessels that are sturdy and practical, yet beautiful and elegant all at the same time. And the best part is they are used to carry you through an experience you won’t soon forget–an experience that leaves you wanting more … an experience that leaves you changed.
And as I pondered how to choose one word this year, and even whether I should, I reminisced about those vessels and considered the weight of Alece’s words…
“One little word can make a big difference.
No resolutions.
No list of goals.
And a commitment to focus on your word all year long.
Let it shape you, guide your decisions, and help you grow. And you’ll discover the big impact one word can make.”
And so I chose one. One little word…
Vessel.
I want to be His vessel.
I want to be built by Him, sturdy and strong, Him conforming my character to His.
I want to surrender and be navigated by Him, through my currents and waves.
I want to be decorated with His glory, beautiful in character, adorned with His fruit.
When I encounter another, I want to leave them wanting more of Him.
And I want them to be changed because of our experience together, not because of me, but because of Him in me.
I long to be a vessel this year, a conduit He can use for whatever purposes He desires.
Vessel.
My one little word.
May it be big in me this year, is my prayer.
You can read about One Word 365 and their wonderful community here.
Have you considered selecting one little word for yourself this New Year?
I just said to Mike, “I love Jacque Watkins.” Thank you for being His vessel. You have already blessed me so much in just the few posts I’ve read since getting subscribed.
My one little word: action. No more thinking about doing things or dreaming about doing things. This is the year of action.
Action!! I love it…a year of purposefully acting. What a privilege to know you, and I’m just so thankful for your gracious and encouraging words to me!
Hey, Jacque! Thanks for sharing this. Praying this year of exploring this word, this picture, this idea will be full of His grace.
Oh Annie, thank you for your prayers! Miss you!
This is wonderful and a great word! A strong word. You will have a great year exploring all God has for you as His Vessel.
Beautiful word…my word this year is PLENITUDE !!!
Blessed 2012