Happy and Blessed New Year 2023

Dear Friends,

As we begin a new year, it’s natural to feel hope and anticipation for what the future may bring. I always look forward to the beginning of a new year with some excitement; it’s a chance to start over with a clean slate. I can’t change my past, so I ask for God’s forgiveness for the mistakes I’ve committed and look forward to new opportunities and possibilities.

While we don’t know how everything will be in 2023, we remember that God has a plan for our lives. Although we can’t travel into the future, God travels ahead of us. Let’s leave the challenges of the past behind and move forward with renewed purpose and optimism.

Trusting in God’s plan and knowing that God is always with us is comforting, no matter what challenges we may face. It’s important to remember that we still have the ability to make our own choices. It’s up to us to try to live in line with God’s will, trusting that He will guide us and be with us every step of the way.

Many studies, including Harvard University’s Grant and Glueck research, show that having strong, positive relationships with others is an important factor in our well-being, happiness, and longevity. As Christian disciples, we also know that having a good relationship with God gives us joy and a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Studies have also shown that those who have a spiritual rootedness may have lower rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

Friends, in this new year, I pray we find time to read God’s word, to spend more time in prayer, to be in community with friends and family, and to find ways to worship God more often. Also, remember to eat healthy and get some exercise at least five days a week. Let us stay healthy physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.

May the God of Peace and Love guide our lives.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. – Jeremiah 29:11

God bless you all!
Pastor Chris