PASTOR MARGERY’S MESSAGE

OCTOBER 2026

         I saw a short news story on TV this morning about how stores are selling Christmas items already. It seems crazy to write that in an October newsletter! As humans, we tend to focus on those things which make us happy, so I guess it makes sense that we would want to celebrate the joy of Christmas as much as possible. As Christians, we understand that joy and sorrow, ups and downs, are part of life. We walk through our days in the confidence that God walks with us, no matter what is happening. We rest in the knowledge that we will ultimately live in paradise with Jesus. We sing that our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; that God is the giver of immortal gladness and ever singing, march we onward, victors in the midst of strife; joyful music leads us sunward, in the triumph song of life. Yes, we can feel defeated, especially when it seems like life is beating us down, but we know, deep in our hearts, that we are victors in the midst of strife because God is with us. I often say that God goes before us, walks beside us, and follows behind us. Not only do I firmly believe that is true, but I have seen that truth lived out. I enjoy Christmas as much as anyone, but I don’t need Christmas to experience that joy. I can find joy and peace on an average October day because my joy and peace are found in Christ who walks with me through that average October day and through the extraordinary days and through the really boring days and through the very painful days. May God help us to show that joy and peace to everyone as we walk through our days, so that they may come to know the love of Christ as fully as we do. Amen and Amen.

Blessings, Pastor Margery