The first printed edition of the Moravian Daily Texts was published in Herrnhut in 1731. It was originally intended for the 30 some households in the community but it has since spread throughout the world. The 2015 edition of the Daily Texts consisted of over 1.5 million copies in more than 50 languages and dialects.
The watchwords for each day are chosen by lot from a collection of over 2,000 suitable Old Testament texts. The doctrinal texts are selected to relate to the watchword. “The watchword is either a promise, an encouragement, an admonition or word of comfort; the doctrinal text contains a point of revealed doctrine.” The texts are often accompanied by appropriate hymns and prayers.
Both the Watchwords and the Doctrinal Texts are used for the selection of annual watchwords for individuals, families, congregations, etc. In many Moravian congregations, these are selected on the first Sunday of each year to provide inspiration and guidance for the new year. The Watchword selected for our congregation for 2015 is:
Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 4:2