The year 2024 has been one of my most challenging years as a pastor. It was a year filled with many trials and difficult moments, and as the calendar turned to 2025, my prayer and hope was for the year ahead to be better than the one behind. But during a time of prayer this week, I was reminded of a simple yet profound truth that we’re called to give thanks in all circumstances.  

1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” That verse doesn’t say to give thanks for all circumstances, but in all circumstances. There’s a big difference, and as I pondered this truth, I realized something—I had allowed so much of last year to be consumed by the challenges I faced that I had failed to recognize the blessings God was pouring out along the way.

It’s so easy to let the hard times overshadow the good. We can become so focused on the darkness around us that we fail to see the beams of light that are peaking through. God is with us, and His light is always breaking through the cracks of our circumstances. In Psalm 119:105, it reminds us: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path”. Even in the darkest seasons, God’s light is guiding us, if we choose to look for it.

I know a pastor who keeps a gratitude journal. Every day, no matter how hard or ordinary his day has been, he writes down three things he’s thankful for. This simple task has given him new perspective. His difficulties don’t disappear, but he now sees God’s hand in the midst of them. That’s what gratitude does—it reorients our hearts, helping us focus not on what’s wrong but on how God is still working.

As I was reflecting on this truth, I began to thank God for the blessings I had overlooked—relationships that have been strengthened in the midst of trials, moments of joy that broke through the heaviness, loving people who had supported me in the difficulties and God’s faithfulness that has never wavered. And the same is true for all of us. We may not be able to change our circumstances immediately, but we can change how we respond to them. 

Gratitude invites God into our present moment, allowing His hope and strength to sustain us. It reminds us that even when life feels heavy, His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). So, as we step into this new year, let’s not just hope for better days. Let’s choose to be people who give thanks in every circumstance. Let’s turn our eyes toward Jesus, trusting that God is with us in the present and will lead us to brighter days. May gratitude shape our hearts, deepen our faith, and remind us that God is our unshakable hope—yesterday, today, and forever.

As we step into a new year, it’s a time for fresh beginnings and renewed focus. Ephesians 1:4-5 (NLT) reminds us of a profound truth: “Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.” These verses paint a beautiful picture of God’s heart—His longing for relationship with us and His desire to have us as part of His family. Before we took our first breath, God knew us, loved us, and planned a future for us.

This truth is a powerful anchor as we face the ups and downs of life. Whether we find ourselves on the mountaintops or struggling through the valleys, God is always with us. There is nothing we experience that escapes His attention. He walks with us through every joy and every sorrow, offering His guidance, comfort, and strength. As we reflect on the past year, we can see His faithfulness woven through the moments of triumph and the seasons of struggle.

God’s plan for each of our lives is good, and it is far greater than anything we could hope or imagine. A central part of His will is that we would not only know His love for us but also share that love with others. Every day, He places opportunities in front of us to be a light in a dark world and to help others discover the truth of His love and purpose for their lives. The question we must ask ourselves as we begin this new year is this: Are we living out God’s plan for our lives, or are we clinging to our own plans? Have we submitted our will to His and allowed Him to lead us where He desires?

The start of a new year is the perfect time for self-reflection. What are the areas in our lives that God is calling us to change? Maybe it’s letting go of a habit, attitude, or fear that’s holding us back. What are the things He’s calling us to press into more deeply? Perhaps it’s stepping out in faith, pursuing a dream He’s placed in our hearts, or investing in relationships that reflect His love.

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us of God’s promise: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” As we enter this new year, let us trust in His plans and surrender to His will. When we put our faith in Him, He can take us to places we never imagined possible.

My prayer for this year is that we will seek God with all our hearts, lean into His purpose, and allow Him to guide us every step of the way. May we trust Him not just with the big decisions but with the small, everyday decisions as well. And may we be willing vessels for His love, shining brightly for the world around us. Let’s step into this new year with confidence, knowing that the One who chose us, loves us, and walks with us has incredible things in store for 2025.

As we begin to transition back to our everyday routines, many of us may find ourselves reflecting on the joy and warmth that the Christmas season brings. The extra holiday time with family comes to a close, presents have been unwrapped, wonderful meals savored, and the festive music has faded into the background. Yet, for those of us who have embraced the true essence of Christmas, this season is not confined to a single day on the calendar. Instead, it is a continual celebration, a daily reminder of hope, love, and the miraculous gift of Jesus. 

Today, I read of a powerful thought shared by John Eldredge in a devotional my wife shared with me. He beautifully articulated how it’s impossible for him to celebrate Christmas without his heart turning toward Jesus’ return. Something we often refer to as the “Second Coming”. And he went on to say: “But what struck me this Christmas was this: the Second Coming is actually…the Third Coming. Christ came to Bethlehem. And then He comes to dwell in you. The Second Coming is actually in you—right now.”

Colossians 1:27 describes this wonderful gift and mystery: “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” This profound truth means that we have the opportunity to embody the heart of Christmas every day. We carry within us the light of Christ, a light that shines brightly in a world that often feels dark and uncertain. Each moment becomes an opportunity to live out the joy of His birth, not just as a historical event but as a vibrant reality in our lives. 

As the world begins to wrap up the traditional Christmas celebrations, my prayer is that we, as a community of believers, can carry the spirit of Christmas into every day of the year. And I pray that we might be vessels of His love, grace, and truth, allowing His light to shine through us in ways that draw others into a relationship with Him. 

May we embody the hope and joy of Christmas in every season, not just in December. May we reflect the love of our Savior to a world in need. Together, let us commit to living out the heart of Christmas—fostering a lifestyle of joy, generosity, and grace—so that every day can be a celebration of His presence in our lives. 

Christmas is a season filled with many things, but at its heart, Christmas is about love—a love so deep, so unconditional, and so sacrificial that it changed the course of history. The true heart of Christmas is found in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This verse captures the essence of what we celebrate: the coming of Jesus into the world as the ultimate expression of God’s love for humanity.

The story of Christmas begins with God’s love for a broken and hurting world. In a humble stable in Bethlehem, Jesus was born—not in a palace fit for a king, but in a manger, surrounded by animals. This setting reflects the heart of God’s love: it’s not reserved for the elite or the perfect; it’s for everyone. Luke 2:10-11 tells us about the angel’s proclamation to the shepherds: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.” The message of Christmas is inclusive and universal, a reminder that God’s love reaches every corner of the earth.

Imagine the shepherds that night, ordinary people often overlooked by society. Yet, they were chosen to hear the good news first. This illustrates that God’s love isn’t based on status or worthiness; it’s a gift freely given. The shepherds’ response was to go and see Jesus, and their lives were forever changed. In the same way, the love of Jesus invites us to draw near to Him, to experience the joy and transformation that comes from knowing Him.

The love of Christmas is also sacrificial. Jesus didn’t come just to live among us; He came to save us. Matthew 1:21 says, “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.” The manger points to the cross, where Jesus would ultimately lay down His life for all of us. This is the greatest act of love. John 15:13 tells us: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends”. Christmas is a celebration of the beginning of God’s redemptive plan, a plan motivated by His deep desire to restore us to relationship with Him.

A beautiful illustration of this heart of Christmas is the story of a little boy who gave his mother a box as a Christmas gift. When she opened it, she found it empty. Surprised, she asked him why he would give her an empty box. The boy replied, “It’s not empty, Mommy. I blew kisses into it until it was full.” That small act reflects the reality of Christmas: the greatest gifts are not the ones we can hold in our hands but the ones given with love. God’s gift to us at Christmas wasn’t wrapped in paper but in flesh—Jesus, Emmanuel, God with us.

This Christmas, I pray we take time to reflect on the depth of God’s love. A love that came down to meet us where we are, a love that offers hope, peace, joy, and salvation.

This Sunday, we will light the third Advent candle which represents Joy. Christmas is a season filled with reminders of joy, but it’s important to remember that the joy we celebrate during Advent is not the fleeting happiness that comes from gifts, gatherings, or even warm traditions. The joy of Christmas is deeper—it’s rooted in the truth of who Jesus is and what His coming means for the world. 

In Luke 2:10-11, the angel proclaimed to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” This joy is not limited to a single moment in time, nor is it reserved for only a select group of people. It is for ALL people, in every corner of the world, in every season of life.

Joy is different from happiness. Happiness depends on circumstances—a holiday bonus, the right gift, or a gathering filled with laughter. Joy, on the other hand, is a fruit of the Spirit that comes from knowing we belong to Christ and that God is faithful to His promises. Even in hard times, joy is available to us because it is grounded in the unshakable truth of God’s love and salvation. 

Mary, the mother of Jesus, expressed this deep joy when she said, “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (Luke 1:46-47). Her joy wasn’t based on ease or comfort; she faced uncertainty, hardship, and sacrifice. Yet she rejoiced because she trusted in God’s plan and promises.

For those struggling during the Christmas season—whether from grief, loneliness, or difficult circumstances—this joy may feel distant. But the message of Christmas is that joy is not something we have to manufacture; it is a gift from God. As Nehemiah 8:10 reminds us, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” It is His joy in us that strengthens us to endure and even rejoice in the midst of trials.

This Sunday, as we light the Advent candle representing joy, let us remember that Jesus’ birth is not just a story of long ago. It’s the good news that God stepped into our world to save us, to redeem us, and to offer us unending joy. And let us reflect on the words of the angel: “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” 

This joy is for us, for our neighbors, and for the whole world. May the light of His joy fill our hearts and overflow into our lives as we celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

The Christmas season is a time of joy and celebration, filled with cherished traditions that bring warmth to our hearts. Many of us delight in decorating Christmas trees, stringing lights on our houses, and exchanging gifts with loved ones. These are fun and meaningful traditions that add to the festive spirit of the season. 

Yet, as we immerse ourselves in these activities, it’s important to remember that the heart of Christmas is not found in the twinkle of lights or the giving and receiving of presents. Instead, it’s found in the knowledge of His presence. The true essence of this season is Jesus Christ—our Savior, who came to be with us and to bring hope, peace, and salvation to the world.

The angel’s proclamation to the shepherds that first Christmas night reminds us of what we celebrate: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord”(Luke 2:11, ESV). These words declare the incredible gift that God has given us—His Son, born into the humblest of circumstances, to save us from our sins. This is the reason for the season, and it’s a truth too profound to be overshadowed by the busyness of holiday preparations.

There’s nothing wrong with enjoying Christmas traditions. In fact, they can help create lasting memories and bring families closer together. But they should never take the place of Jesus in our hearts. Think of the wise men who traveled far to worship Jesus. They brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, but the most significant part of their journey was their worship. They didn’t let the journey or the gifts overshadow the Savior. In the same way, our traditions and celebrations should be offerings of joy and gratitude that always point to Jesus.

This Christmas season, I pray we take time to reflect on what truly matters. Let’s make sure we don’t let the sparkle of the season blind us to its true light—Jesus Christ. Let’s take time to savor the wonder of His birth, the depth of God’s love, and the hope that His coming brings. And may everything we do this season, from stringing lights to giving gifts, draw us closer to Him. Because, the best way to celebrate Christmas is to celebrate Jesus, the greatest gift of all.

Yesterday was Thanksgiving—a day set aside to give thanks for all the blessings in our lives. But how many of us truly pause and take time to give thanks? If you did, way to go! 

The truth is for many, Thanksgiving has become little more than an excuse to eat turkey, watch football, and plan Black Friday shopping trips. And in the rush of all the planned activities, it’s easy to overlook the real purpose of the day: Gratitude.

And, just like worship is not ONLY singing, gratitude is not ONLY saying something we’re thankful for at the table on Thanksgiving day. Gratitude is a way of life that requires ongoing practice.

Gratitude doesn’t always come naturally in a world where we take so many things for granted. We’ve grown accustomed to our blessings and often fail to notice them. I once read, “If the stars came out only once a year, everyone would stay up all night to see them.” But because the stars appear nightly, we rarely look up to marvel at them. The same is true of our blessings. When we become accustomed to them, we lose our sense of awe and thankfulness.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 the Apostle Paul writes, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” At first glance, this command may seem impossible. How can we rejoice always? How can we give thanks in all circumstances, especially the difficult ones? The answer lies not in our own strength, but in the power of the Holy Spirit. When we invite the Holy Spirit into our lives, He transforms our perspective. He helps us see the beauty in the ordinary, the purpose in trials, and the abundant blessings—big and small—all around us.

In Luke 17:11-19, ten Lepers call out to Jesus and ask Him to have pity on them. Jesus healed all ten of them, but only one returned to thank Him. That one man, a Samaritan, recognized the gift he had received and chose to come back and express his gratitude. Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?” This story challenges us to reflect on our own hearts. Are we like the nine who received blessings without giving thanks, or like the one who took the time to thank God?

Gratitude is not just a feeling; it’s an intentional choice. It’s choosing to pause and acknowledge God’s goodness in every situation. It’s realizing that there is grace, even in hardships—a lesson, a provision, a promise of His presence. Psalm 103:2 (NLT) tells us, “Let all that I am praise the LORD ; may I never forget the good things he does for me.” This verse reminds us to actively remember and recount God’s blessings.

As we move beyond the Thanksgiving holiday, let’s strive to cultivate a lifestyle of thankfulness. Start small: thank God for the sunrise, the laughter of loved ones, the meal on our tables, and the gift of salvation. Let the Holy Spirit awaken in each of us a deep awareness of God’s goodness. 

This gratitude will not only honor God but also transform our hearts and bring us joy. So let’s ask the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to the blessings we’ve overlooked and allow His joy to draw us closer to Him and fill our hearts with thanksgiving.

In Matthew 5:1-2, it tells us: “Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them.”

This passage introduces one of the most profound moments in Scripture: the Sermon on the Mount. And as Jesus begins to teach, there’s an important detail worth noting. There are two distinct groups that are present—The crowd and His disciples. And understanding the difference between these two groups can help us reflect on where we are in our relationship with Jesus.

The crowd was large, diverse, and ever-changing. They were drawn by the excitement surrounding Jesus—the miracles, the authority in His teaching, and the hope of witnessing something extraordinary. They were intrigued by Him, perhaps even inspired. But their commitment was shallow. For many, their connection to Jesus was just temporary, based on what He could offer them in the moment.

The disciples, however, were different. They weren’t just curious observers; they were committed followers. They had made a decision to leave behind their old lives and fully embrace the new life that Jesus offered. They didn’t just want to learn from Him; they wanted to live like Him.

This distinction is still relevant today. We still have crowds and disciples. And the question we have to ask ourselves is this: Are we part of the crowd, content to admire Jesus from a distance, or are we disciples, devoted to walking with Him daily?

A few years back, our men’s group did a study titled “Not a Fan.” It asked the tough question: Are we fans of Jesus—enthusiastic spectators—or are we followers who seek to truly know Him and obey His teachings, even when it’s hard?

Being part of the crowd is easy. It doesn’t require change or sacrifice. But Jesus calls us to something deeper—to be His disciples, people who live out His teachings with courage and faith.

This call isn’t just about our proximity to Jesus—it’s about our transformation in and through Him. While the crowd admired Jesus’ words, the disciples let His words shape their lives.

So, where do we find ourselves? Are we simply fascinated by Jesus, or are we committed to following Him, no matter the cost? Jesus is calling us to be more than just a fan and to step out of the crowd into deeper relationship with Him. He’s inviting us to move from being admirers to being followers who experience the fullness of this life that He offers.

My prayer for all of us is that we wouldn’t settle for being part of the crowd, but instead seek to be His disciples and live lives that reflect His unconditional love and grace.

As we enter the rainy season in Oregon, it serves as a reminder of the natural rhythms God has woven into creation—not just in the changing weather, but in the patterns of our own lives. Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” 

Each season, whether in nature or in life, has its purpose and brings a unique opportunity for growth, reflection, and renewal. Some seasons are marked by joy and abundance, while others bring challenge and discomfort. Yet through them all, God is present, leading us and helping us to grow in Him.

At the start of the fall season, we are surrounded by the beauty of change: the crisp air; the vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold; and the gentle falling of leaves. It’s a season of transition, a time when nature prepares for rest after the growth of spring and the abundance of summer. And then…it gets colder, rainier, and darker. The leaves turn brown and we see also the pain that change can bring. Fall is a powerful teacher concerning the spiritual and life seasons we go through. It reminds us that change, while sometimes bittersweet, is part of God’s plan for our growth and renewal.

The cold of winter can sometimes feel harsh and lifeless, but essential work is taking place beneath the surface. In our spiritual lives, these times of stillness may feel like silence or even abandonment, but they are seasons where God invites us to draw nearer to Him. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” It’s in the quiet of winter that our roots grow deeper, finding nourishment in God’s Word and presence. Just as trees in winter prepare for new growth by strengthening their roots, we too find strength and renewal during times when everything on the surface seems dormant or dead. 

The new colors of spring are a picture of resurrection: of hope fulfilled and life renewed. After enduring the rain and the cold, we finally see the vibrant evidence of growth and the beauty that comes from perseverance. In spring, we celebrate the fulfillment of God’s promises. It is a season of answered prayers, fresh starts, and abundant joy. We are reminded of Psalm 30:5, “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” The flowers that bloom after the severe cold and rain are a testament to God’s faithfulness; they remind us that no hardship is wasted when placed in His hands.

And then summer is often seen as the culmination of growth and a time of enjoyment. It’s a reminder to cherish the blessings God has given us and to be grateful for the journey that led us there. The warmth and abundance of summer teach us to praise God not only in times of need but in times of plenty. These joyful seasons remind us that God’s goodness is ever-present, encouraging us to give thanks for the fruit that comes from patient endurance.

Every season in life has its purpose and is part of the greater story God is telling through us. Whether you find yourself in a time of change, a time of cold silence, or rejoicing in the bloom of spring, or joy and abundance of summer, trust that God is with you. Ask Him to show Himself to you in each season—how He’s working, where He’s moving. He is using each moment to draw you closer to Him and to shape you into who you are meant to be. May we learn to embrace each season, finding joy and purpose in the fact that God is at work in our lives.

Today is November 8th, but I’m writing this devotional a week in advance because my wife and I are going away for a few nights to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. So I’m actually writing this before the elections take place.

Right now, I have no idea what the outcome will be, and it’s possible that by the time you read this, the results may still be unclear. But one thing is certain: no matter who wins and what measures pass, there will be people on either side who feel let down, worried, and even fearful about the future. In a country that’s as divided as ours, these times can bring uncertainty that stirs up deep anxieties.

In times like these, it’s easy to focus on our own understanding, to rely on the things we see and feel. But Proverbs 3:5-6 calls us to something deeper as it tells us to: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” 

This is a call to let go of our worries and place our trust fully in God’s hands, even when things don’t go the way we hoped or expected. God sees what we cannot, and His wisdom and purpose extend beyond the limitations of our understanding.

I’ve often said in church that God’s ways are not our ways, echoing Isaiah 55:8-9: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. This truth is an invitation to trust, especially when we don’t understand. 

The outcome of any election will influence our nation’s course, but it doesn’t change who God is, and it doesn’t change our mission as His followers. The greatest commandments still remain—to love God and love people. This doesn’t change based on political outcomes.

When we anchor ourselves in the truth of Proverbs 3:5-6, we realize that we’re called to keep trusting God above all else. Who the next president is will never affect God’s sovereignty or our identity in Christ. 

Our purpose—to be ambassadors of His love, grace, and peace—endures beyond any election cycle. So, as we reflect on these words today, let’s choose to trust God’s plan and remember that He remains firmly on the throne. And in doing so, may we find the courage to love others well, regardless of how divided the world around us may feel.