My first pastor’s desk of 2026.  “Begin with God” - Genesis 1:1   

There is always a first for everything. There is always a beginning and an end. Ecclesiastes reminds us there is, “a time to be born and a time to die” (3: 2).  It’s not always how you start but how you finish.  I like good endings, I would imagine everyone does.  Sometimes we may have a vision for where we want to be, accomplish or how we want to finish but can’t seem to get started, we procrastinate or ‘life’ just happens (you know what I mean?).  It would be ideal to live out our lives with no regrets, but I would imagine that would be the exception not the rule. 

Although making New Years resolutions aren’t directly in the Bible, the idea of resolve for positive change, spiritual growth, self-improvement, self-examination is very biblical.  The bible encourages planning, transformative habits, prioritizing.  We all pretty much make time for what is really important to us.  C.S. Lewis, well said, “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”  I agree and disagree with this statement, as far as an “earthly” perspective.  Some goals have a shelf life in this life.  My running goal (dream goal) when I was in my 20’s and late 30’s was to run a qualifying time in the Marathon to enter the Olympic trials. Although that never came to fruition, that goal did make me a much better runner.  Now in my 60’s that goal is obviously impossible, and now my goal has changed to being consistent in my training and to stay fit for as long as possible.  My mother will be 86 this January, her goals that she may have had are past. Her earthly goals have shifted to end of life goals (although she prayerfully may have many more years - in God’s hands).  We have goals for her, like comfort, dignity, peace, value and presence with loved ones.  My mother has given us the most important gift, her  faith - her profession of Jesus as her savior and Lord.  One may gain the whole world, but if they lose their soul - would be tragic!  I am thankful for a New Year.  A whole chapter, blank pages yet to be written on.  As you set new resolutions, resolve to give Jesus first place, you won’t regret it in this life or the one to come.  God is a good God. He created the heavens and the earth.  He created light.  He created you and me.  He created us for a purpose and for eternity.  Yes, plan, set goals, aspire for excellence but remind yourself that all earthly things will come to an end some day.  So resolve to have at the top of your list in 2026 - building your relationship with your creator via Jesus Christ and His Word.

My verse for 2026, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all  these things shall be added” - Jesus (Mt. 6:33).

Happy New Year!  God’s continued blessings, grace and mercy!

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14