Elizabeth's Expression for the New Year

The new liturgical year and the New Year are upon us. Many of us will make New Year's resolutions and consider what this new year will bring. Unfortunately, the past few years have been full of stops and starts, with a pandemic turned endemic. In addition, many of our loved ones and church family members have gone home to God.

The end of Advent has turned cold, windy, and rainy. This can make us tired and weary. Jesus' birth will shine this Christmas brightly, reminding us of the hope that we can be agents of change in our lives, church, family, and community. 

YCUCC’s light shines brightly in people's lives through how we welcome, serve and care for each other and the community. Matthew 5:14-16 reminds us that God's light will not be hidden like a city on a hill. 

“You are the light of the world. A city on top of a hill can’t be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they put it on top of a lampstand, and it shines on all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before people, so they can see the good things you do and praise your Father who is in heaven.”

The year ahead will bring opportunities for us to let God’s light shine as YCUCC welcomes, serves, and cares for God together. I look forward to serving God with you as we welcome, serve and care together. 

Starting January 11th, 5-6 pm, I will be hosting a Bible study for five weeks on the book James. I will be using Elsa Tamez’s book, The Scandalous Message of James, as our guide. There isn’t a need to purchase the book. We will meet in the meeting room, and you do not need to sign up or feel like you need to attend each week. The book of James offers us words of encouragement and hope. We will think about how we can be the “doers of the Word.” I hope you can join us. 

Peace in God’s Love,

Pastor Elizabeth