Sunday, February 4, 2018

Birthday Prayer/Letter

Happy February everyone! (And happy Super Bowl Sunday)
I love February because it is my birthday month!

I started a tradition during my birthday month a couple of years ago. I often find that writing letters to myself has been super beneficial for me, because i save them and read them again years later. It gives me a reminder of the goals and intentions I set for myself as well as some encouragement. I love reading things I wrote down years ago and seeing how much I have changed. So for my birthday, I write myself a letter, so I can look back on them later. I also feel hat writing to myself in third person helps me see myself as an actual person. I know, it sounds so weird and crazy, but that's just how my brain works, I guess. I thought i'd share my birthday letter/prayer with all of you, so it can hopefully bring you some encouragement and inspiration as well. Here it is:

Chloe, welcome to your 23rd year of life! It's amazing how God has been faithfully knitting together every aspect of your life ever since the day He created you. 

May this year be a year filled with profound faith and devotion to Jesus. May you feel His love and presence each and every day of your life. May you never forget about all the wonderful things God has done for you and may you stay close to His side. In a culture that is becoming more godless, may you be a source of light and truth to this world. May you be an evangelist for Christ by your thoughts, words, and actions. May you be Jesus' hands and feet to a world that is in great need of Christ's love. 

Chloe Marie Park, you are a daughter of the heavenly King who is not moved by the world. Your God  is with you and goes before you. You do not fear because you are His. You are a kingdom warrior with aim to set the world free from the devil's lies and traps. You are a dragon slayer. You may be short and little, but you are mighty because of your God. You are called to be a beacon of hope and light to a broken and hurting world. You have so many gifts and talents and I pray this is the year you use them to build others up. As long as you have breath in your lungs and a heart beating in your chest, you have a purpose to serve. Always remembers that serving others is the best way to find true joy and peace in this life. In a society that is obsessed with self-gratification, greed, and selfishness, may you be a someone who invests time, money, and energy into making others feel loved and valued.

Chloe, always remember you are strong, brave, and capable. You can do anything you set your mind to because you are stubborn and fiery like that. Just in this past year, you have conquered so many obstacles and challenges. Just remember: Don't ever look down unless it's because you are admiring your shoes! ;) 
Don't ever let one little setback keep you sad forever. You will go through many challenges, but always remember God is fighting alongside you. You are fierce and brave and you don't go down without a fight. 

Don't ever back down from standing up for the truth and what is right. It is so easy to lose your morals and ethics in this world. You have always been one to speak up when injustice is happening and I pray you continue to do that. May you be an advocate for those that don't have anyone else to help them. Keep helping those people that the world labels as unlovable. 
When culture wants to build walls of division and hated, may you build bridges and accept anyone and everyone who needs a loyal, compassionate, and generous friend. Be inclusive not exclusive. Jesus' love is for everyone not just the rich and famous. If you have more than you need, share it with others and be a blessing to them instead of hoarding everything for yourself. There is always plenty of room at your table for everyone to have a seating be included. 

Happy 23rd birthday. Now, go and show the world your sass and sparkle and slay those dragons. Let's make it happen. 

Love,

Chloe