“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16 (NIV84)
Hi, Rock Church Family! As we step into this new year, I wanted to take a moment to remind us of something. We talked about it a couple of weeks ago during our Christmas series. And honestly, for me, reminders are always a good thing (especially as I’m getting older :-)).
In my message “The Promise of Love,” I reminded us that Christmas isn’t the beginning of God’s love – it’s the fulfillment of it. Long before the manger, long before the Cross, God had already set His heart on you.
Three Simple But Powerful Truths
God’s love seeks us.
He didn’t wait for us to get our act together. Instead, while we were still messy, distracted, and unfinished, God made the first move. Christmas is God saying, “I’m coming to you.”
God’s love saves us.
Jesus didn’t come to condemn or criticize. On the contrary, He came to rescue. He didn’t shout instructions from heaven. More specifically, He stepped into our world and pulled us to safety. That’s grace.
God’s love stays with us.
Immanuel — God with us. Not just during the holidays, and not just on our best days. But in every season we walk through. Without a doubt, as we start this new year, that truth matters more than ever.
Here’s what I hope we all remember and carry into 2026: You don’t earn God’s love. You simply receive it. God never gives it as a reward for good behavior or as a resolution you have to keep perfectly. Instead, God gives this gift freely, and you receive it by faith. Over 70 people received the gift of forgiveness through Jesus at our weekend services a few weeks ago — praise God!
As you begin this new year, here are a few simple action steps:
- Start each day this week by thanking God for His love (before asking Him for anything).
- Rest in the truth that God is always with you — no matter what you’re facing in this new season.
- Share His love intentionally. Encourage one person, invite someone to church, or show kindness in a practical way.
Church family, I’m so grateful for you. I’m also excited for what God has ahead. Together, let’s move into this year grounded in the love that seeks us, saves us, and stays with us.
With gratitude and hope,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor