January 2026

Happy Hew Year! Life’s slate of keeping “score” is wiped clean and we emerge as individuals who have new opportunities in life. Some of us will make New Year’s resolutions to …better ourselves. Resolutions that set
goals such as losing weight, read more, watch less television and use our cell phones a lot less. What might you desire to change about yourself from last year’s activities?

As for me, I want to spend more time exercising and taking care of my body. I know that I am not as young as I used to be, all of my bodily joints require stretching and moving as well as a monthly adjustment from a chiropractor.
 

The family of God is also developing new identities. We have a new bishop, new council leaders, new WELCA leaders and we all desire to receive “new members” to join us in worshiping God, receiving his
promise of salvation and living a new life of peace. Some of these “new” individuals will offer new ideas and directions for growth. Living life as usual won’t cut the mustard anymore. It’s time to try something new,
different and maybe experimental. What change can we embrace as God’s people to move away from an attitude of “good enough” for us… move in the direction of “better for welcoming a special guest”?
 

Such changes still require us to look in the mirror and take care of our reflection. Take care of the way we appear to others: new paint, new floors, clean tables, dust free environments… hair in place, smile on our
hearts, love shared as bread is broken and offered to others in Jesus’ name.
 

In the “newness” of a new month, a new year, our reflection and witness need to be much more than superficial smiles so that we are truly reflecting a devotion and commitment to shine forth the light and love of Christ. His birth in the manger was not simply a “cute” delivery proving that God can create life and light in mangers. The birth of Jesus is intended to show humanity that they are loved and redeemed by the love and desire of the Almighty. A love that comes for our sake…that we would have a new identity through him. He, Jesus is The King and we are His people. Our allegiance is to Him, and our purpose is like His purpose-to Love. Give love, encourage love, give forgiveness, be extravagant in loving ways.
 

May each member of His church identify with our NEW IDENTITY-Loving disciples who help and care for our neighbors by inviting them into a relationship with the man of the manger.

See you in Church… Pastor John