Happy New Year!

It does not require a degree in psychology to determine we Americans are obsessed with the future. All one needs to do is read the newspapers or listen to the radio and you will find a proliferation of prophets, pundits and prognosticators eagerly attempting to predict what the future holds in an effort to quench this insatiable thirst. Many gullible folks will quickly turn to the astrology section of the newspaper, trusting they will find what “the stars” hold for them in the future.

Some will visit their local psychics, who will gaze at tea leaves, read tarot cards or some other method of hocus-pocus to “determine” what the future will bring. Some of us trust our intuition, minds or intellect to study all sorts of “megatrends” to get a leg up on what these portend for the future. No matter the means to which we may resort, we want to be in the know regarding the future.


However, only One truly knows the future, and that is the omniscient, sovereign God who rules the universe. It is an unfortunate circumstance of this mortal life, but we all must contend with the stubborn fact there is a shroud of uncertainty cloaking the future. And since God is the only One who truly knows the future, it is a monumental mistake not to include Him in our plans. This is the fatal error many commit when creating their grand schemes for future success.


As the beginning of a new year is fast approaching, many are quite concerned as to what it may bring forth, while many are in the process of making plans in hopes to make it a successful one. Perhaps the best advice for both situations, at least from a spiritual perspective, has been provided by Henry Ward Beecher, who said, “Every man should be born again on the first of January.” What better mindset than this to purposefully reconnect with God and start the New Year with a fresh page and a re-invigorated spirit.


Frances Havergal wrote:”Another year is dawning dear Father. Let it be, in working or in waiting, another year with thee”. Include God in your plans, and with this type of attitude, you will have the settled reassurance that no matter what the future brings, God will be with you!


Thank you for your service to Christ this past year. Let’s endeavor to make this the best year ever in our church’s history!

See you on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day!

Pastor