Happy New Year, Friend!

Christmas Day didn’t go quite as planned for me. I woke up sick and spent most of the day in bed, making sure it wasn’t anything serious. But even from there, I could hear laughter—family gathered, stories being told, joy filling the house. And somehow, that was enough. It reminded me that joy doesn’t disappear just because circumstances aren’t perfect.

Since then, I’ve been noticing joy everywhere, on the basketball court, around the dinner table, and even in simple conversations with wait staff at a Sunday meal. Smiles. Laughter. Lighthearted moments.

Jesus came to bring Great Joy.
The joy of forgiveness.
The joy of peace with God.
The joy that grows as we serve others instead of living for ourselves.

I’m deeply grateful for the generosity shown through the Shine Campaign. Because of so many faithful hearts, we’ve already reached over 50% of our goal. Your giving helps fuel our ministry into 2026. As you give a courageous gift I hope it brings a quiet, holy smile, the kind that says, I trusted God with something meaningful. You can give online through our website or drop a check off into the church mailbox. 

As we step toward a new year, may we hold onto this promise:  “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)

Grace and peace to you and your family into 2026!

Pastor Mike