A note from Pastor Travis 1/7/21

Dear FUMC Family and Friends,
 There is a wonderful rhythm to the Sundays in January. We start off the month by celebrating the Epiphany, when the Magi visited the baby Jesus. In January we also celebrate the calling of the first disciples and Peace and Justice Sunday. This coming Sunday is the day we remember and reflect on Jesus’ baptism. It gives us an opportunity to reflect on our own baptisms too. This is an important way to start the new year, especially this year.

Last year was difficult for many. For much of the year we were not able to worship in-person together. Easter and Christmas didn’t feel the same. As a result, it is easy for many to feel far from God. Our virtual worship has been a blessing, but it isn’t the same as being together. We need an opportunity to feel renewed. That is what this coming Sunday is all about.

Traditionally, the Methodist movement started the new year with a watch night service, which included a covenant in which people had the opportunity to renew their commitment to God. It was an opportunity for people to review the last year, celebrate their faithfulness, confess their sins, and resolve to be more faithful in the coming year. It gave them a fresh start for a new year. Most modern American Methodist don’t gather on New Year’s Eve for a watch night service. Instead, we take the opportunity to reflect on our spiritual lives and renew our commitment to Christ on the Sunday that we celebrate Jesus’ baptism. We will be doing that this Sunday. 

As you prepare for Sunday, I invite you to reflect on your own baptism. You may not remember the actual event, but you have experienced its blessings. How has your baptism blessed you? How has the baptism of others you know blessed you? How do you want to live out your baptism in the coming year?

Peace and Grace,
Pastor Travis