New Year’s Day: Breaking Bread; Breaking Boundaries

by ‘Ainise Isama’u

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, contemplating the theme we’ll be embracing in 2024, “Breaking Bread Together,” I am filled with hope and anticipation for what lies ahead for our faith community of women.

In Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, we are reminded of the beautiful ebb and flow of life, where there is a season for everything under the sun. In this upcoming year, may we recognize the season we are entering — a season of unity, fellowship, and sharing. Just as there is a time to plant and a time to reap, let it be a time to sow the seeds of compassion, understanding, and love among us. Let us cultivate fertile ground for unity where we break bread together not just as a ritual but as a symbol of our shared faith and devotion.

Matthew 25:31-46, the parable of the sheep and the goats, teaches us the profound importance of compassion and service. In this year ahead, may we be inspired by these words to see the face of our Savior in those around us, especially those who are marginalized and vulnerable. Let us remember that when we feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and care for the least of our sisters, we are breaking bread with Christ himself.

Open hearts

My hope for our faith community in 2024 is that we will come together with open hearts and open arms, breaking down the barriers that may divide us and embracing the diversity that enriches us. May our gatherings be characterized not only by the breaking of physical bread but also by the breaking of barriers, prejudices, and misunderstandings. Let us be a community that listens, learns, and loves without boundaries.

In the year ahead, I pray that our faith community of women will be a shining example of what it means to break bread together. May we be known for our unwavering faith, our boundless love, and our commitment to serve others. As we come together in fellowship and unity, may we find the strength and inspiration to be the hands and feet of Christ in our world.

Let us remember that it is in breaking bread together — symbolically and through tangible acts of service — that we fulfill our calling as followers of Christ. As we step into this new year, may we do so with hearts full of hope, ready to embrace the theme of “Breaking Bread Together” with joy, purpose, and faithfulness.

Wishing you a blessed and transformative year ahead.

In faith and fellowship,

‘Ainise Isama’u
President, United Women in Faith Board of Directors

The children’s art is from the 2023 Daily Prayer Guide.