Happy New Year, Church! 

As we turn the calendar into a new year, it is a great opportunity to pause and consider God's faithfulness in 2022. So often we rush on to the next thing and forget to consider what there is to celebrate and grieve. How did God show you His strength and power in 2022? How did He show you His tenderness and care? 

My mouth will tell of your righteous acts, of your deeds of salvation all the day, for their number is past my knowledge.  - Psalm 71:15 

If you feel like you are coming into 2023 limping along, stressed or afraid, please know that we have a great High Priest who invites you to come to Him in boldness because of the way He made for you through the cross. Us humans often speak of turning over a new leaf in the new year, but God's Word tells us a deeper truth...

The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.  - Lamentations 3:22-23 

If you are someone who likes to make resolutions or intentions for the new year, I invite you to consider a way to grow in your love for God and others this year. A year from today, how do you want to answer the question "How do you love God and others more today than you did a year ago?" 

We love because he first loved us.  - 1 John 4: 19

Gaia Stanley, on Behalf of the Elder and Minister Team