Dearly Beloved,

This Sunday we hear from John the Baptist as he calls people to return to God with their whole hearts. This is followed by Jesus’ baptism when the Holy Spirit descends on him and a voice declares him God’s beloved. Throughout this reading, our attention is dramatically drawn to God. We are called to focus the whole of our lives on the One in whose image we are created and who because human for our sake.

We orient our lives to Christ. We live into our baptism remembering that we are washed in God’s love. We look to God to guide and direct us in our daily lives. Just as the Magi followed the star that led them to Jesus, we gather in worship and prayer that we may draw closer to God.

This Sunday, you will be invited to pick up a Star Word. Each star has one word (English & Spanish as well as a few in other languages) for you to use in your life. Reflect on how God might be speaking to you through that word. You may feel connected right away or it might take time. Say it out loud. Think about it during the day. Watch for how it may come up in conversation or in reading.

If you need additional help, feel free to contact me. For those not here in person but would like a word, let me know and I will give one to you (pick a number between 1-165 so that the word will be random.)

May you be blessed by the gift of God’s word to you.

Peace in Christ,
Pastor Jen

NOTE: Our Internet was out last Sunday so that’s why it wasn’t broadcast. While it came back it is out again today (1/5). We hope and pray that it will be back soon but just wanted to give you a heads up.