First, I want to thank you all again for giving me sometime off. I also appreciate Blaine and others for leading worship 2 Sundays ago, and Barbara for leading Christmas Eve.

I don't have a devotion this week but only a short reflection.  As we enter the New Year, I am sensing a new breeze in my spirit. That God is once again mysteriously blowing a gentle fresh wind in our hearts and in our next journey as a congregation. Let us be opened to receive renewed energy for the services we are already doing, and a passion for new visions and goals this year.

Or it might be that God tagging your heart to do something new for the church? To attend study groups? To read scriptures during worship? To be part of a committee? To help with the children's ministry? To share a song, poetry, or testimony during worship? The possibilities are many. And whatever they are, they all make a difference in our intent to move forward.

In the coming months, I believe that the Gentle Spirit will once again lead us in a season of renewal as we take our next steps forward. Get ready. Be open. Be willing to say yes to the Spirit's call.

I am reminded of what Rick Warren mentioned once that, "In surfing, you'll never find a course that teaches you how to build a wave. Surfing is the art of riding waves that God builds. God made waves, surfers just ride them." As we start this year, let us ask ourselves, "Where is the wave of God taking us this year?"

I am grateful to be part of a church that knows mission and fellowship really well. My family and I have been blessed by your prayers and support, your excitement in serving others, and your deep passion to grow in Jesus Christ!  

And so let us continue to journey together with great expectations that the Great Weaver of Life, who started his work in us, will be faithful to continue it this year!  Amen!