And the one who was seated on the throne said, “See, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Then he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.”

Revelation 21:5-6

Pastor John Writes:

I recently bought my father a 2024 wall calendar (and a Daily Text book)  to help him keep track of the days in the new year.  Many of us no longer use wall calendars, as we rely on our phones and other devices to keep track of our schedules.  Yet, as we — physically or virtually — take one calendar down and put the new calendar up, it is a time for new beginnings.

Revelation 21 reminds us that God is continually at work in the world.  God is creating a new heaven and a new earth, God is living among us, and all time (the beginning and the ending) is in God.  As we launch into the new year, how will Friedland be the church differently in 2024?  How will we  be the same?

Let us resolve to embrace the diverse seasons of life with gratitude, knowing that through it all, God is present, guiding us with unwavering love.  As we step into the new year, may our hearts be open to the possibilities ahead, trusting in the divine timing that governs every aspect of our journey.

May this new year bring us closer to God, deeper in faith, and more connected as a community.  May this new year be filled with the anticipation of God’s redemptive work in our lives and our world.

May God bless you and keep you in 2024, and always.

In Christ,

The Rev. John G. Rights