Pastor’s Notes: 1/3/2025

In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, mag from the east came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star in the east and have come to pay him homage.”  Matthew 2:1-2

Happy New Year! As we turn the calendar to 2025, we look forward to walking together into a new season of life and faith. This Sunday, January 5th, we gather for Epiphany Sunday, a time to celebrate the journey of the magi and the revealing of Christ to the world. Our theme is “The Road Isn’t Straight,” and we’ll reflect on how, like the magi, we face choices and make them together as we pursue Christ and follow the light into the darkness.

Our scripture readings, Matthew 2:1-12 and Isaiah 43:16-21, remind us of God’s guidance even when the path is unclear. The magi’s journey was not direct or simple, but it was purposeful and filled with hopeful anticipation. As we step into this new year, we, too, embark on a journey, knowing that while we are far from perfect, in Christ, we can accomplish grace-filled things.

Let’s begin 2025 with open hearts, ready to follow the light wherever it leads us. I look forward to being back with you on Sunday in the sanctuary or on YouTube.

Pastor’s Notes: 1/6/2023

I am so excited about our upcoming worship together this Sunday, January 8th. Rev. Dr. Jay R. Hartley will be with us to share the good news and officially install me as Minister! It will be a true day of celebration as we burst into 2023 together.

The focus scripture for the morning comes from Matthew 2:1-23, the story of the Magi. According to the authors of our Generation to Generation worship material: “the Magi were seekers. They sought wisdom, they sought the divine, they sought fortunes to tell the future. Their seeking leads them to Jesus, the newborn king of another culture and religion. And yet, their seeking is also what protects them from Herod’s deception and harm.

After the Magi go home by another way, Joseph is visited again by an angel in his dream. This time, the angel brings a warning, and like before, Joseph heeds the message. Fleeing from Herod’s massacre, Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus seek refuge in Egypt; they remain there, living as immigrants, until Herod dies.

Like the Magi, may we seek the divine and be willing to journey closer to God. Like the Holy Family, may we seek safety for all families who are under threat. This new year and every year to come, let us keep seeking— wisdom, justice, and a better world.”

I look forward to worshipping with you on Sunday!

Brett