Faith@First (Dec. 27)

The last few days of December are always some of my favorite days of the year. After the Winter Solstice, the days begin to lengthen, and the gradual return of light reminds me of an eternal truth: the light of Christ is here, and it is always growing. It’s a beautiful and tangible reminder that even in the depths of winter, light is with us and ever increasing. This turning point reassures us that renewal is already at work and cannot wait.

Our Christmas Eve services this year powerfully reflected that truth. Through candle lighting and the singing of "Silent Night," we shared Christ’s light at all 3 services, watching it illuminate Celebration Hall and the Sanctuary as one flame passed to another. That light, which we celebrated on Christmas Eve, isn’t meant to stay within the walls of the church—it is here for us to carry out into the world!

This Sunday, as we gather for one worship service at 9:45 AM in the Sanctuary, we will lean into the truth that renewal can’t wait. We will have the opportunity to respond to the light of Christ through a time of intentional reflection and recommitment to God through Wesley’s Covenant Renewal Service, a time-honored tradition in the Methodist Church across the globe. This act of renewal isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment—it’s about embracing the light and hope that is already with us today.

The light of Christ doesn’t fade or falter; it calls us to action, to faith, and to transformation. As we step into this time of renewal together, let us carry that light boldly into the days ahead. Just as the lengthening days remind us that change is constant, let us live as people of light, spreading hope and love wherever we go. Renewal can’t wait—and neither can the call to shine Christ’s light in the world.

Keep the Faith@First,

Pastor Brittney