I am writing this greeting halfway through our celebration of Christmas, and a brand new year is upon us yet again. The birth of Jesus signals a turning point in history, a new beginning for sure. In the same way, the New Year prompts us to reflect back and thank the Lord for the many blessings bestowed upon us in this past year. It is also a time for new beginnings. How fitting that the new year should fall just days after we celebrate the birth of Jesus!

While we enter this New Year with thanks to God, we also meditate upon the new beginning that is secured for us in Christ. As Paul writes to the Corinthians: “So, if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new.” (2 Cor. 5:17)

And as Jesus Himself reminds us: “See, I am making all things new.” (Rev. 21:5)

Make no mistake about it; our God is not a God who stands idly by. God is living and active in our world. But, God works through ordinary people like you and me to bring about God’s divine will. What a privilege that we are called to participate in the work of God’s kingdom.

As we enter this New Year, let us always be reminded that while we may do the planting and the watering, it is God who gives us the growth. Therefore let us continue to come and be nourished by God’s word. Let us rejoice in the birth of our Savior and look forward to Christ making all things new as we seek God together.

New Year’s Blessings,

Pastor Barbara