From the Pastor's Desk

"Through the tender mercy of our God, with which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; to give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death to guide our feet into the way of peace" (Luke 1:78-79). "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!'" (Lk. 2:13-14). Peace is at the heart of the Christmas story.

Are you at peace with your purpose? Are you at peace with the direction of your life? If you're a Christian, you should be. God engineered a radical shift in the trajectory of our lives, and we found peace in Jesus. "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace..." (Eph. 2:13-14). Perhaps you seek a new direction or a sense of renewed purpose, but those feelings should never rob you of the genuine peace that can and should be yours through a personal relationship with Jesus.

Have you found the lasting peace that can be yours through Jesus, or are you still rushing after the illusion of peace and happiness that our world promises, but cannot deliver? Today, as a gift to yourself, to your family, and to your friends, claim the inner peace that is your spiritual birthright, the peace of Jesus Christ. "That peace, which has been described and which believers enjoy, is a participation of the peace which the glorious Lord and Master Himself enjoys." (Jonathan Edwards)

Merry Christmas!

Pastors Mark & Jennifer