So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us. – 1 Thessalonians 2:8
Happy New Year! As we reflect on this past year, we’ve seen Immanuel at work in amazing ways, both in our personal, family and church life. For some of you it’s been a challenging year of “ups-and-downs,” but you were learning to lean into His presence and guidance. For others the past year was surprisingly calm, without major issues. Who knows the countless ways Immanuel protected you from unseen dangers. As we recently celebrated our Savior’s first coming, let us anticipate His second coming as we commit ourselves in 2026 “to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called . . .” (Eph.4:1). We should be asking “how would I like to see more of Christ formed in my life?” We may approach this new year wanting to exercise more, eat healthy, lose weight, or improve in some way our physical, emotional and mental health. All good things. But “how to be more like Christ” should top our list. Give some prayerful thought to this and consider sharing with your Christ Church elder. They would love to pray for and encourage you in this. May the Lord, “out of the riches of his glory grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith” (Eph. 3:16-17).
