A Christmas Letter From Pastor Todd

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. 1 Peter 3:15
I’ve heard it said that you can survive forty days without food and three days without water, but you can’t last a single second without hope. For those of us who know its source, it is imperative that we are ready to share with others where real hope can be found. There is only one place to find real hope–through a relationship with Jesus Christ.
 
Throughout this past year members of our church family have shared this hope by demonstrating its reality amidst life’s adversities. Together, we’ve witnessed hope prevail through the loss of loved ones, financial challenges, broken relationships, health issues, personal discouragement, and a myriad of unexpected disappointments. Events so difficult, and hope’s triumph so great, that it demands an explanation.
The answer to everyone who asks is that the strength of our hope is determined by its source. Apart from Jesus there is no anchor that will remain secure in the storms of life. He is the only one who can bring light where there is darkness, joy where there is sadness, and victory where there is defeat.
 
 While reflecting on Christ’s birth, Ray Ortlund observed that, “God’s answer to everything that has ever terrorized us is a child.” The Advent season provides us with opportunities to share God’s answer with those whose hearts are weary. As this year comes to a close, I invite you to prayerfully consider making a year-end gift to our church that is above and beyond your regular giving. You can make your gift by mail, online, or in the offering basket at church. Your generosity will enable our church to continue its mission of bringing Christ’s hope, healing, and wholeness, to our community and to our world. The thrill of hope – the weary world rejoices! In Christ, you are making an eternal difference.
 
Merry Christmas,
Pastor Todd