Welcome to 2010 --- the end of the first decade of a new century. Scientists and doctors tell us that babies born this year are almost guaranteed to see the year 2100. Wow, --- one wonders what changes to the world they are going to see as they grow into their adulthood.
I noted with interest that one of our parishioners made comment on Facebook about how quickly all of the Christmas decorations and songs etc. disappear after Christmas day. I totally agree with her. It seems that the great “well, that’s over” sets in as soon as the last gift is opened. People rush to the malls etc. to exchange those gifts they really don’t want and to spend their new gift cards on some hot item. In the process of getting Christmas over with, so many people pack away their Christmas cheer and spirit along with the trees and ornaments, and I think to myself how sad that is. I pray that none of you have fallen into the post-Christmas humdrums. If so, let me know. I have some parishioners to visit in our nursing homes that would love to have you come along with me and sit and talk and pray with them once in awhile. I guarantee it will help you as much, if not more than it does them. I’m blessed to get this spirit renewal twice a month on visitation day.
This has not been a gentle decade for the world has it? In fact I would call this the “decade of fear” which I will address during my first sermon of the year on the 3rd of January. We’ve worried about everything from terrorism, to economic woes, to worldwide flu epidemic. We’ve watched people lose their homes and their jobs due to nothing more than greed at the highest levels. We’ve seen business after business close and unemployment continue to rise.
This can drive us all a bit nuts if we let it. But --- I refuse to let it get to me. God created us and God loves us. God will show us the way through all of these worries if we will trust in Him and rely on His guidance. So, --- when I wish you a Happy New Year, --- that is exactly my wish for you. Have a happy – healthy --- Holy Spirit filled 2010. Pastor John
Friday, January 1, 2010
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