Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus,
Let’s start 2021 off on a good note…good footing…
Many a time I have prayed with individuals in nursing homes, hospitals, or at other times in which I
included the words “we give you thanks for all the blessings in our lives; those that readily come to
mind, and those we have forgotten about as the years have gone by.”
It’s a chance for us, in prayer, to quickly glance back over our lives and give thanks for all the good (big
or small) that God has graciously brought into our lives. In the year we have just gone through, and even
amid last year’s turmoil, there may have been blessings we have received that have so brightened our
lives for which we may be extra thankful. I know I have a couple that outshined all the negative that was
last year. I realize there has been a great deal of loss as well, but we also remember why those losses
are so great. They remind us of the love and joy that was, and still is, in our lives…those blessings.
Reach back into your lives, your mind’s-eye, and bring forth just one or two of those blessings that have
so enriched your lives; bringing a warmth and reconciliation to your hearts and minds. For we are in
need of a good start to rekindle the light within us; the hope that is ours, and is ours in Christ Jesus.
I am hoping this message simply gives you reason to smile, reason to laugh, and reason for joy and
hope…for Christ Jesus himself says to us… “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give
to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” (John 14:27
NRSV)
Peace be with you all!
Pastor Chris