Pastor Lucy's Message
(February 2025)
Whenever February comes around, I can't help but reflect on how love has affected my life.
Love has brought me so much hope, strength, adventure, heart-ache, doubt, and yet so much wonder and love. I know Valentine's Day has grown into a holiday that is more about chocolate, cards, and romantic love--but I also can't help but think about God's Love. So here are some more prompts to talk about God's love with those you love this February. I experience God's love through remembering the promises of baptism as I touch water through daily actions like brushing my teeth or washing my hands. I remember that God has chosen to love me no matter where I go, or how much I doubt--God is beside me, ready to forgive me and love me. One of my favorite bible verses about love comes from the Gospel of John.
"As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you." (John 15: 9-12) Following Jesus can be confusing. And if I'm being honest, so can loving others--but that is what we are called to do. As followers of Christ, we are called to mirror the love the Father has for the Son and Jesus has for the disciples. We are forever intertwined and shaped by God's abiding and loving presence through Jesus and the Holy Spirit. It is God's love that empowers us to be God's hands and feet in the world. --Pastor Lucy P.S. Our next Family Sunday School will be held February 9 at 3 PM. We will gather for some storytelling, fellowship, fun, and support. Come join us! Grand-parent/grand-child groups are welcome too! |