January & February 2008 Message from the Pastor

A Devotional New Year

With "cold December flying away" (as we sing) we look for warmth and light in the New Year. What will make for comfort and hope in 2008? I remember one of my psychology classes "back in the day" which theorized that security and growth are our two basic strivings. We need the comfort of a secure environment in order to have the hope for growth in the uncertain adventures of the future.

It seems to me that church can help you with both of these basic strivings. We have the familiar environment that resonates with God's good news of love for us and promises us a peace that passes all understanding. What greater security might we wish for? Come perils or pain or even death itself, nothing can separate us from God's love. Our foundation is certain. If we doubt it, perhaps we haven't been present in God's house or dwelt in the Word as much as we might. Perhaps the brothers and sisters in the faith can help us to better see and feel this warm light.

And, as we anticipate or fear what lies ahead of us, we nevertheless have a hope that may seem almost crazy. Why should we be optimistic, full of positive energy and planning boldly when there are so many reasons to be cautious and skeptical? How is it that hope truly springs eternal? I think one of the greatest proofs for the power of the church is that it can be deeply involved in the sorrow and pains of our people and our world and still be joyful in our tears, our singing and our life together.

Our security and our ability to grow start with devotional values. Young children become resilient because their homes foster good, healthy practices. People must care for each other and the systems of the home must work well. Our faith lives require a discipline that helps us understand God's ways and a spiritual relationship that is prayerful and biblical.

We have been reminding you of the importance of devotional practices in recent months and now, as the New Year begins, we hope we will all resolve to be disciplined about devotions. We have offered various suggestions of resources to help with your prayer and bible study time. We will also encouraging you, especially during Lent, to follow the writings of one of four spiritual leaders for 40 days and see how they can help you. We will be offering other classes on spirituality and related topics in the coming months and invite you to participate. Please talk to us if you need help getting devotional materials.

I pray that God will keep you (secure) and bless you (help you to grow) in 2008 and all the years to come!


Pastor Jim Friedrich