From Pastor Christopher Kurien – January 2021

As we begin a new year, we look back on the difficulties of this past year. Without a doubt 2020 has been one of the most difficult years for our current generation. In some sense, it’s difficult to say Happy New Year, knowing it’s not going to be happy for many people. I pray this new year will be kinder to us.

At the threshold of this new year, we might complain about the difficulties of 2020, including our desire to be together with family and friends. I’m thankful that most of our lives have been spared. Personally, we had made plans to visit India this past summer and were disappointed that we couldn’t travel. However, as I reflect on 2020, many blessings come to mind. I’d like to share some with you.

1. As we know, none of our immediate church family members have died due to Covid-19. While a few congregants contracted the virus, God has spared most of us.
2. As a church, we quickly adapted to new technology and never had to cancel our services.
3. This technology has enabled us to see many friends and family members. Many participated in our virtual services.
4. We’ve heard people say, “We were in touch with people we’re not ordinarily in touch with.” So, there was more communication between people.
5. We began to appreciate what we have rather than what we don’t have, especially our family.
6. Unlike many congregations, our financial health seems good, and I thank all of you for your faithfulness.
7. Despite the challenges of 2020, our lives, in general, have been good. We praise God for that.
8. Many of us developed new interests, such as gardening, painting, reading, and learning.
9. We are experiencing democracy at work, with the transition of power in the US, which in some other parts of the world could only be a dream.
10. Above all, God has been faithful in our lives and we are grateful.

While we don’t know what’s in store in 2021, we do know that our God holds and knows our future. With that certain hope, I’d like to wish you a happy, healthy, and blessed New Year! Let us find time to read God’s word and pray regularly. Let us be in touch and let people know we love them. Let us live with a purpose and find joy in everything we do. God Bless you all!

Shalom!
Pastor Chris