|
Hello St. John’s Family,
Each week this newsletter begins with a note, as I or one of our St. John’s Staff members offers a brief reflection on where we see God at work in the world. Often, that reflection shares a glimpse of the good things God is accomplishing here, through our St. John’s Family. Sometimes those reflections are from our personal experiences – like when your crazy pastor stalks birds through saltwater marshes all weekend. And sometimes those notes lament the hurt and conflict so prevalent in our world, longing for the hope and restoration Christ offers to be experienced by all. We sincerely try to encourage and guide through these notes, offering reminders of God’s ever-present love, of our connectedness together in Christ… while perhaps even bringing a smile to your face toward the end of the week.
Durning Advent, this gift of hearing how God is at work in the world is extended by you, through the powerful reflections offered in our Advent Devotional. This is one of my favorite parts of this season: beginning each day with a picture of how God is present to and working through you – the people of St. John’s. It’s moving to see so many take the time to give witness to God’s goodness through good moments and difficult ones; to offer encouragement and to share how you experience God’s love with you across your lives.
For me, the story – and beauty – of Advent is how God comes to humankind, breaking in at some of the most unexpected moments… often through the difficulties and struggles of everyday life. God shows up in powerful ways in the lives of everyday people, and through their faithful witness, so many others experience the hope and love of God.
As I get older, one of the things I’ve learned is that you cannot manufacture hope. True hope must come from beyond us; from a source that pure and good and infinitely bigger than us. Hearing your stories of living out the hope you have in Christ is beautiful. Thank you to all who step out in faith and vulnerability to share a devotion… and for all the ways that each of you allow the light and hope of Christ to shine through your lives, presenting a powerful witness to our community and world!
This Sunday, the second Sunday in Advent, we’ll explore Luke 3:1-6 in worship. We’ll hear the message of John, sent to prepare a people – yet the preparation isn’t what most would expect. Yet through that preparation, God’s goodness and grace is revealed. I hope you’ll join me in worship Sunday morning-
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Brad
| 
