The Message

Dear Friends,

By the time you receive this message, many of the sounds of Christmas will have faded and even some of the sights will have disappeared. As Christians, we march to the beat of a different drummer and to the tune of One who has taken up residence in our midst not simply for a sentimental reason but for a lifetime and all eternity. Thus, I suggest it is well we linger at the crèche and let the mystery and miracle truly sink in for ours is a God whose gift is transformational.

The light of Christmas brings us to the season of Epiphany when we celebrate the light that guides our path and journey. Speaking of light, our Christmas Eve candlelight service was ever so beautiful. Both exterior and inner light testify of course to the "Light that shines in the darkness which was not overcome by darkness." Elizabeth Kubler Ross has put it so well. "People are like stained glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within." May it be said of all of us!

Finally, a New York Times essay headline declared, "the lesson of 2011 is that we can't forsee 2012." While this is true, it makes our faith critical. Even though we do not know what 2012 will bring, we entrust our lives to the One whose star guides us forward. After all, Christmas is the gift of hope and salvation and herein lies the peace which passes all understanding.

Grace, peace and blessings for the New Year!

Kent E. Huyck
Interim Pastor