News for the week of December 28 - January 4, 2023

Message from Pastor Bob Bahr

I trust that you had a peaceful and joy-filled advent and Christmas season. For Marleen and myself it was a quiet Christmas.  Our plans to have Christmas dinner with a very dear and special friend had to be postponed until New Year’s Day because she came down with Covid.  

This disappointment reminds me of the uncertainties that face us in the coming months.  There are so many unknowns that lie ahead.  But, as we look forward there's been a thought in my mind that may seem simple, yet it's a powerful truth; “New Year, Same God.”  That brief statement reminds me of the beautiful Scripture in Hebrews 13:8.  “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”  With changes coming at us so quickly this is a wonderful and reassuring truth. 

For God has said:

“I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.” Deut 6:31

So we can say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear.” Ps118:6  

This Sunday (New Years Day) Pastor Chris will be bringing an inspirational message entitled: “Paul’s Last Days” He will be preaching on 2 Timothy 4: 9-22.  

Personal reflection: What can I learning from these verses about how I might finish well as a believer?  

Celebration of Life Service for our beloved George Palejko is on Saturday, January, 7 at 2 pm. This will be a very special time of remembrance and thankfulness. Personally, I am extremely grateful for George. His faithful involvement in the teaching ministries of our church made a significant impact in the lives of many. Furthermore, his analytical mind helped us make wise decisions.

In closing, I would like to leave you with a prayer from R. Scott Clark.

“Almighty God, to whom our hearts are open, our desires are known, and from whom no secrets are hidden: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the gracious power of Your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love You and worthily magnify Your holy name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.”