January Newsletter

Dear Faith Family,
For many, the idea of a new year is a great time for "fresh starts" and great new opportunities. For others, it is a reminder that we can't go back to the past. Oftentimes, those who love the ways things used to be will become anxious about what the new year holds in an ever-changing world. I want to remind of all of a very simple and timeless message that should encourage every Believer: We don't know what tomorrow hold, but we know Who holds tomorrow!
Jesus reminded His followers of this basic principle when He told them they would experience hardships, even turmoil and suffering but that they could be at peace because He has overcome this world. (John 16:33) Jesus knew that everything was changing and that throughout the end of time as mankind understands it, this would be an ongoing process. Many people resist change. Some like to learn how to accomplish things in life and live their lives out in a comfortable fashion. It's easier and in some ways more rewarding for people who think this way. For others, change is an ongoing opportunity for "new starts" and "fresh ideas"; it's the way of transition and growth. Some thrive on the excitement of change that unlocks the potential for improvements of society.

One thing is for sure, whether we like change or not; we must embrace certain changes in order to retain our place in the reality of life. For example, we can choose to continue to date our documents ending with the year 2022 for as long as we want to. If you are like me, you will do this repeatedly until around the end of February. It takes FOREVER to begin to consistently write the correct year each new year. At the same time, if I am still "writing" 2022 in February of 2026 (if Jesus doesn't come back before then), you would rightly question my intent or possibly ability to be a productive and engaged person in the year 2026. I must embrace the changing of the date each year. Perhaps you see this as a silly example and I admit that in some ways, maybe it is, but the important principle here is every new year requires at least two things of you and I as followers of Jesus: 1. We must trust God to lead us. 2. We must be obedient to engage this life He has given us and not let it pass us by.

FAITH Family, I am praying that we will not become weary in well doing (Galatians 6:9) and find that we have missed the harvest that God desires to bring through His church. I am praying that we will embrace 2023, the celebrations and the challenges, with a resolve to THRIVE as the people God has created us to be for such a time as this!
2023 is here and it is time to put our FAITH in action and THRIVE!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!                                                                            

- Pastor Lee

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