From the Pastor's Desk
“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)
Imagine, the great, seasoned and tested apostle saying, if I may paraphrase, “I haven’t arrived yet, but I’m pressing on with my eye on the prize!” No doubt, 2023 had its challenges and left its marks on us, but we’re not to dwell on these. Certainly, it’s good to look back with thankful hearts to see how far we’ve come and reflect on the lessons we've learned. However, as much as we’ve learned from the past year (both successes and failures), we’re encouraged to keep our eyes focused on the One before us, and not live in our rearview mirrors, so to say. The apostle goes on to say, “Only let us live up to what we have already attained (v. 16). Despite our mess-ups, we’ve made some gains. Let’s build on these! Also, let's remember His promise that He will carry on “to completion” the work of salvation He began in us. (Philippians 1:6) Hallelujah!
2024 will, undoubtedly, present its challenges and opportunities for growth. Just continue to look to Him who has called you and empowered you to run and finish the race. Even if you stumble a little out of the gate, with God’s help you'll finish strong! “The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24)
On behalf of my wife, Debbie, our leaders and staff, I’d like to wish you a Happy and Healthy New Year and all of God’s best for your life.
Because of His faithfulness,
Rev. Luis Rivera
Imagine, the great, seasoned and tested apostle saying, if I may paraphrase, “I haven’t arrived yet, but I’m pressing on with my eye on the prize!” No doubt, 2023 had its challenges and left its marks on us, but we’re not to dwell on these. Certainly, it’s good to look back with thankful hearts to see how far we’ve come and reflect on the lessons we've learned. However, as much as we’ve learned from the past year (both successes and failures), we’re encouraged to keep our eyes focused on the One before us, and not live in our rearview mirrors, so to say. The apostle goes on to say, “Only let us live up to what we have already attained (v. 16). Despite our mess-ups, we’ve made some gains. Let’s build on these! Also, let's remember His promise that He will carry on “to completion” the work of salvation He began in us. (Philippians 1:6) Hallelujah!
2024 will, undoubtedly, present its challenges and opportunities for growth. Just continue to look to Him who has called you and empowered you to run and finish the race. Even if you stumble a little out of the gate, with God’s help you'll finish strong! “The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24)
On behalf of my wife, Debbie, our leaders and staff, I’d like to wish you a Happy and Healthy New Year and all of God’s best for your life.
Because of His faithfulness,
Rev. Luis Rivera