Dear Caldwell,
As people of faith, we live between two worlds – secular traditions and the ways of God.
What better example of that than the convergence of New Year’s Day and Epiphany, which we celebrate Sunday.
Doubtless, television, social media and talk at parties will offer up ways we might enter 2019 with fresh spirits and new ways of being. How can we shrug off those thoughts and behaviors of 2018 we should leave behind? What does a fresh start look like?
For centuries, the church has been asking a similar question with the celebration of Epiphany. This year, the day of Epiphany lands on this Sunday. Epiphany asks how the manifestation of the Lord in a poor, disenfranchised baby changes us. How are we, like the magi, made different from seeing the wholly unexpected appearance of God in a lowly manger? How do we then go “by another way?”
Whatever you have planned for tonight or tomorrow, perhaps that’s worth a few minutes of contemplation. How should we as a church community go forward from this Christmas in new ways or, perhaps, with renewed commitment to what has defines us a congregation for the last decade?
One thing is for sure: We won’t be standing still. God has much in store for us in 2019.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections as I think about all of this for Sunday’s sermon. Shoot me a note at JCleghorn@caldwellpresby.org. Scripture for Epiphany will be Ephesians 3:1-12, in which Paul shares his thoughts about the meaning and the mission to be found in God’s manifestation as flesh and blood.
One immediate opportunity: The ACE Class begins reading C.S. Lewis’ classic, The Screwtape Letters, this Sunday. It’s a witty and poignant poke that helps us see our faith in new ways. Why not jump in? ACE starts with chapters 1-3.
Finally, make plans to attend our Stewardship Celebration Luncheon for all after worship on Sunday. It’s on the house!
Watch for more in Caldwell This Week.
In Christ,
John