2014 has been an interesting year. It was full of change. As a family we moved, Becca started high school and got her drivers permit, I have changed jobs, Kari took a promotion at Explorers and both of our vehicles died and through generous gifts we are driving new cars. It has had it's struggles, like health issues, but overall it was really a great year. As a church family, Lighthouse has seen change as well. Staff has shifted, some leaving, some coming and some moving position to new roles. Ministries have also come and gone. Many have seen change and others have grown.
I am included in the latter. I am shifting into a new role at Lighthouse. For the last 2 1/2 years I have been primarily responsible for the Awana ministry. However, through God's faithfulness and guidance I am taking on more responsibility as we head into 2015. I will be filling the Family Ministries Pastor role, and will continue to serve and lead Awana, but will also be overseeing all children, youth, family and parenting ministries in the church. I am so excited to see what God will do this year and forward.
There is something about the New Year. People make resolutions and goals for the upcoming year, yet others dread their future. Some look back at the past year with regrets, yet others hold on to beautiful memories. One of our elders, John Gordon, preached this last Sunday. He shared that the cultural climate right now can be depressing and discouraging. With all the "bad" news on TV and other media, from crime, racial issues and terrorism. However, for those of us in Christ we can raise our heads towards where our Salvation comes from and find Hope.
As you both look back and look forward during this New Year remember, that our hope is not in the things of this world (money, things, government or other people) but in the Grace of God through Faith in Jesus. I'll leave you with this verse.
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13
