Preparing Our Hearts for Annual Session: 30 Days of Prayer and Devotion - Day 1
September 3, 2026
Preparing Our Hearts for Annual Session: 30 Days of Prayer and Devotion
“A journey of remembering, renewal, shared ministry, and hope as we prepare to gather."
Day 1 – Called Together
Rev. Dr. Miriam Méndez
Executive Minister and Senior Regional Pastor
Scripture:
"For we are God's servants, working together; you are God's field, God's building." —
1 Corinthians 3:9
Reflection
The story of God's people has always been one of community. From Abraham and Sarah's call to the birth of the early church, God has gathered people for a shared mission. Moses relied on elders. Jesus called disciples. The first believers prayed, worshiped, and served side by side. God's work has never depended on a single individual but on a faithful community responding together to God's call.
The apostle Paul reminds the church in Corinth that we are "God's servants, working together." Each of us brings unique gifts and experiences. Some plant, others water, some teach, some encourage, some lead, and some faithfully serve behind the scenes. Yet all are participating in the same work, and all depend on God, who gives the growth.
As we prepare for the Annual Session of the American Baptist Churches of New Jersey, we remember the rich heritage of faith entrusted to us. Across generations, pastors, lay leaders, congregations, and communities have joined together to proclaim the gospel and bear witness to the love of Christ. We are the beneficiaries of their faithfulness and the stewards of that mission today.
May we embrace our calling with gratitude, humility, and hope, knowing that this is God's work and that, by grace, we are invited to do it together.
Prayer
Faithful God, thank You for calling us into the fellowship of your Church and into the joy of serving together. Unite us in love, humility, and a shared purpose. Help us honor one another's gifts and remember that this is your work and that we are your servants. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Practice
Reach out to someone whose partnership in ministry has encouraged or strengthened you. Offer a word of thanks and pray for them as a fellow servant in God's work.
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