But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God. (Gal 4:4-7)
And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!"
The year ends with a celebration of the birth of a child, a beginning. Paul reminds us in Galatians that the timing of Jesus' arrival was perfect.... "When the fullness of the time had come." And it feels to me that the fullness of time is coming for his Second Coming. This year, indeed, these past few years have been filled with birth pangs.
Our year as a church has had both struggles and victories. Yet, we arrive at Christmas together, united. I am so thankful for the opportunity to worship with you during the Advent season. I'm praying for the time we spend together at our annual Christmas Eve Candlelight service.
As we close the gate on 2025 and start our trek through 2026, I am excited. God is moving in our church in the lives of the church members. I'm seeing the fruit of your spiritual growth, and it's amazing. Praise the Lord!
On January 15th, we will host Injoy Stewardship for a presentation on a Capital Campaign to fund the conversion of the bank building. This is a huge step for our church, and I am thrilled to take it with you.
Please be in prayer, asking God that we will be able to discern His will and for His guidance!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Pastor Rob