Happy New Year!
This Sunday is our last one for Christmas as we celebrate the arrival of the Wise Men. This special day on the Christian calendar is called Epiphany. Its meaning is derived from two understandings. To say that you have had an epiphany is to proclaim a sudden understanding or realization about something. For Christians we use this term to signify the arrival of the Wise Men to the birth of the new king- the savior of the world. They reach their destination after following the star. Their epiphany is a new understanding that this is a different kind of king- one born in a lowly manger. It changes their lives and the trajectory of their journey. They go home a different way, with a new understanding of what it means to be a king.
I will be passing out “Star Words” for you in worship. This tradition began in Protestant churches about ten years ago. My friend Rev. Paula has shared many meaningful stories about the ways her congregation has been blessed by this tradition. It is hard because we typically want to chose our word or have some sense of getting a “good” word but part of the tradition is letting go and letting the Holy Spirit lead you to your word. I will be placing these star words along the altar rail for you to pick up after you have taken communion on Sunday. (You can also have them brought to you in your seat.) If you are joining us online, we will have a link to receive your star word here. My prayer is that you will hang your word somewhere that you will see every day. That you will sit with this word and listen to God’s leading in prayer. That you will allow the Holy Spirit to work through you.
As we begin another new year, I give thanks for all the ways that we have shown up for each other and the community. Our Sunday morning average attendance has grown almost one hundred people in 2024. Our ministry with Exodus House is thriving again thanks to the leadership of the Cornerstone class. Our children and youth are reaching record high attendance numbers. Every parking space on our campus was filled for Trunk or Treat/Block Party this year. For the first time we recognized that some people simply came for the free food. And what a blessing to be able to serve them!
As we look to the uncertainty of what is to come, may we lay aside any fear or trepidation knowing that what we face, we face it together. May we proclaim joy and love in our actions, words and interactions with all of God’s people. May we stand strong for justice, mercy and compassion in the way that Jesus did. And may we create beloved community for all people who walk through these doors seeking the Holy One. Amen.
love,
