“For I know the plans I have for you” says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11
Dear Friends in Christ,
Jeremiah was writing to the exiles in Babylon when he said this. Although they had been through very difficult and trying times, Jeremiah brings an encouraging word of the Lord to them. He tells them keep moving forward with their lives and keep praying. You have probably heard the saying ‘when the going gets tough, the tough get going’. For Christians that phrase is more like ‘when the going gets tough, the Christians’ faith gets going.’ Life does not come to a stop when challenges come. We live by faith not by fear. We live in confidence knowing the Lord is with us and has good plans for us. We respond in faith and trust.
St. John’s is actually in a very exciting time. The church is looking for a new pastor. As most of you know I am concluding my interim service here and taking my retirement plans to the next level at the end of the year. When I came to St. John’s almost 5 years ago, I didn’t know how everything would work out. I had no idea how long I would even be here. Apparently, God had a plan. I don’t think things could have gone better. The Congregation is stronger spiritually, growing in attendance and membership, has a great level of participation and support, and is financially stable. There were quite a few repairs and upgrades to the building during this time so the building and grounds are in very good condition as well. The congregation has responded wonderfully whenever a need arises.
In our NALC denomination (North American Lutheran Church) there are faithful pastors and several of them are interested in coming to St. John’s to meet with the Call Committee. Pray that those meetings go well and the Lord will lead a new pastor to St. John’s. Don’t fall into the trap of negativity. Just remember that the previous denomination St. John’s was affiliated with said this Church would be closed in 5 years. They said that more than 20 years ago. I think you see the point. Yes, God does have a plan for you to have a hope and a future.
Holly and I feel very good about our time at St. John’s and appreciate your commitment and dedication to being the Church in a time when the Good News of Jesus Christ is needed more than ever. Personally, we have enjoyed your friendship and the fellowship. You will always have a special place in our hearts and we are happy to see St. John’s grow into the future. We’re excited to see how things unfold in the coming months. God bless you all.
In Christ,
Pastor Dan