January 2010 Message from Pastor Kittel
Time marches on … We celebrate the end of the old year and welcome in the New Year. As you look back on the old year, you determine in your mind whether it was a good or bad year by the value you place on the events that transpired. If the year was marked by the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, or that you had to accept a difficult diagnosis, you might label it as a bad year. If there was the birth of a healthy child in the family circle, a marriage, a graduation, or a promotion, you most likely will label it as a good year.
The one thing about any year … old or new … it is in the hands of God. His promises are what make a year bearable … no matter how difficult or challenging it may be. “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? … No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:35, 37-39)
As you face the New Year, believe that God is for you. Face the New Year with His promise that “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you … knowing that “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Remember also that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13: 5b, 6b, 8 )
Christ entered time as the Word made Flesh. Jesus has redeemed time with His perfect life, death, and resurrection for our salvation, guaranteeing you eternal life by faith in Him.
What will you resolve to do for the New Year 2010? Surely, to walk in His Way, to study His Word, to frequent His Supper, to forgive and love others as He has forgiven and loved you, to offer the gifts of your time, talent and treasure for proclaiming the Gospel and the growth of His kingdom. May the Holy Spirit empower you to be committed in faith, to do His ministry and mission where you are planted.
Always in His Grip,
P.S. Your wonderful cards, encouraging words, and generous gifts have warmed our hearts throughout the Christmas season. THANK YOU! God bless and uphold you as we begin a new year of service together – growing in the Word and leading others to Jesus. May all we do and say bring glory to His name.
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