Psalm 8 not only reminds us of our purpose in creation but also offers hope that, through Christ's resurrection, we are filled with His Spirit to fulfill our earthly work until He returns to restore all things and bring us into eternal life with Him.

Joseph’s path from a proud young man to a humble servant of God teaches us that humility is often cultivated through hardship and dependence on God. His transformation highlights how struggles can refine our character and deepen our understanding of God's hand in our lives.

In a world dominated by constant comparison, we can remember that characters like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph weren’t perfect. In fact, their flaws—ranging from lies to favoritism—show that God uses imperfect people to fulfill His promises.

While scripture clearly includes population growth in the command to "be fruitful and multiply," God's ultimate design for fruitfulness is about spiritual growth and kingdom expansion, not just having children.

The world may seem dark, but just as Noah found favor in God's eyes during a corrupt time, we too are chosen for assignments that allow God's grace to shine through us. Our response should be one of obedience, trusting that God equips us for the work He calls us to.

By delighting in God's word and meditating on it daily, we are reminded that we can avoid the influence of the wicked and remain rooted in His truth, which leads to prosperity and spiritual growth.

Although the narrow road can be challenging, God is our rescuer, and through His help, we can endure and shine a light for others to follow, leading them to the same path of life.

This year, don’t settle for a maintenance plan. Instead, may the redeemed of the Lord join hands in partnership with God and do the work that he has given us to do!

Drawing from Genesis, we reflect on how the initial beauty and order of creation was disrupted by disobedience, yet God’s plan for renewal was set in motion immediately after the fall.

Scripture shows that God's word has great power to accomplish His purposes, reminding us that when we align ourselves with His will, the impossible becomes possible.

While smartphones and devices help us stay connected and productive, the constant distractions they create often make it harder to find peace or time for spiritual reflection.

The start of a new year often brings pressure to stick to resolutions, but it's important to remember that we all have weaknesses and are not perfect.

God’s blessing is affirmed in the wisdom of the Psalms, where those who meditate on His Word are promised protection, joy, and guidance as they follow His path.

Even in the midst of slow progress or uncertain tasks, God's Spirit empowers us to accomplish His purposes, and every small step is significant in His grand plan.

As we step into 2025, it’s comforting to remember that God is both the beginning and the end. From the very start of creation to the final chapter of eternity, He is with us.

Happy New Year from Dean Collins!

As we close this year and step into the next, we are encouraged to trust in God’s unchanging presence, knowing that He will continue to bring comfort, joy, and purpose as we serve Him and others in the coming year.

Eternal life is not just a future promise; it is something we can experience now as we live and love like Jesus, with the confidence that both we and our departed loved ones are alive in Christ.

God’s love and grace are abundant, freely given to us from the fullness of Christ, but they are not meant to be hoarded; instead, we are called to pour out grace and share the light of Christ with those around us.

While calendars and schedules help us manage our lives, they can also distract us from the deeper purpose of Advent and Christmas—to encounter the presence of Jesus in a meaningful way.