Pastor Chuck’s Corner: January 2025

I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Christ Jesus.

(Philippians 1:6 NRSV)

I have noticed over the years that I greet each new year with similar feelings. Turning the page from 2024 to 2025 has brought them up again. They run the gamut from newness, hope and expectation to doubt, uncertainty and concern. January 2025 could be the beginning of any of these becoming more of a reality.

Optimist that I am, I must say that hope is the strongest as we begin 2025together. Having been with you now since September 2021, I have seen much evidence in the life of St. Mark’s to allow me to feel this way. The examples are too many to list, but here’s a few: the willingness and ability to help others. Be it raising money for disaster relief or purchasing Christmas gifts for under-privileged kids, your generosity overflows everytime.

Also your deep commitment to the ministries of St. Mark’s through hands-on help or financial support, God’s love shines brightly through your efforts. A certain reason for hope going forward.

Your support, care and prayers for me are another cause for hope to rise up. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

But the greatest reason to carry hope into 2025 can be found in that verse from Philippians at the top of the page, because it so vividly describes what God is doing in the lives of the folks who make up St. Mark’s Church. God has begun a good work here; both in the church and in us as individuals. From where I sit, the evidence of this truth is overwhelming. Though we are certain of God’s guidance, none of us knows for sure what2025 has in store. But here’s what we do know: God will continue to be in the middle of it all at St. Mark’s each and every day.

Be blessed and be a blessing,

Pastor Chuck