The Rev. John Go, Gloria, Grace, and the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Let Me be Full, Let Me be Empty!
By the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
As we approach the farewell to 2023 and usher in the new year of 2024, the words of John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer echo in my mind.
“I am no longer my own, but yours. Put me to what you will, place me with whom you will. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be put to work for you or set aside for you. Praised for you or criticized for you. Let me be full, let me be empty. Let me have all things, let me have nothing. I freely and fully surrender all things to your glory and service. And now, O wonderful and holy God, Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer, you are mine, and I am yours. So be it. And the covenant which I have made on earth, let it also be made in heaven. Amen.”
Derived from the Puritan tradition, this John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer is traditionally recited during Watch Night services, signifying a moment of remembrance and the renewal of the baptismal covenant. It encapsulates the essence of the Jesus way – a path of self-giving and self-emptying love, acknowledging our complete dependence on God in our faith journey.
Typically, each member of my family establishes three to four resolutions every year and shares them as we sit together after breakfast on New Year’s Day. Additionally, we review the previous year’s resolutions. The year 2023 has been one of personal and spiritual growth for me, and I am deeply grateful for the experiences and lessons it has brought. Also, 2023 has been a juxtaposed year; as much as I experienced and was challenged to find internal peace, the world has been in deep chaos and disturbance from wars, conflicts, disasters, etc. In these juxtaposed times, I am grounded in the words from Jesus in John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Looking forward to 2024, my primary resolution is to embrace a simpler life, one that resonates with the principles embedded in John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer. Simplicity is not just about decluttering physical spaces but extends to decluttering the mind and heart, focusing on what truly matters in life. In a world often defined by materialism and constant busyness, simplicity becomes a counter-cultural choice. It involves intentionally choosing a life that is less about accumulating possessions and more about cultivating meaningful connections, both with others and with the divine. What truly matters in my life, and how can I align my actions with these values? It might mean letting go of unnecessary commitments, decluttering spaces that no longer serve a purpose, and prioritizing activities and relationships that bring joy, growth, richness, and fulfillment.
Also, simplicity relates to the wisdom and reflection of saying ‘no.’ In a society that glorifies busyness and productivity, the ability to decline unnecessary obligations becomes a powerful act of self-care. By recognizing my limitations and setting boundaries, I want to create space for what truly enriches my life in which “I am no longer mine but thine.”
Furthermore, embracing simplicity invites a deepened spiritual awareness. It encourages a closer connection with the divine, slowing down, being mindful of the present moment, here and now, and finding gratitude in the simple pleasures of life.
As I embark on this journey towards a simpler life in 2024, I am mindful of the challenges that may arise. However, the foundation laid by John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer reminds me of the transformative power of surrender and trust in God’s grace and leaning on God’s faithfulness and goodness. The memorization of Church School in January is Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to me, and I will answer you and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”
As we step into the unknown of 2024, let us be open and mindful of the great and hidden things that God will show us and does within and amongst us. May the coming year be a journey of self-discovery, spiritual growth, and a deepened relationship with God and our loved ones. Wishing you a blessed and abundant new year!
The Rev. Mia MiKyung Park serves as the Associate Pastor of Blaine Memorial UMC.
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