Happy New Year, Beloveds,
Here we are at the end of the first week of 2022. Where we are and where we hope to be at this time are not in alignment. We are called to hold on to the Advent and Christmas Hope that holds us in challenging times. We got this. We know how to be with, hold up, one another – reaching out in love.
Love. This week we celebrate the “Baptism of the Lord”. In Advent we looked at this Scripture, and we are reviewing it again. Sometimes review is necessary to remind us of truths. It is also a mystery as to how the lectionary and church year align what is going on in our lives.
We have learned that John the Baptist announces the greatness of Jesus, one to whom he cannot compare. “I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals.” We have heard about the “Holy Spirit and fire.” And this week, we hear God’s proclamation to Jesus, “You are my Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”
“You are my Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” Listen for that still small voice of God proclaiming this to you. Feel God’s love enveloping you, and show up for each other as God shows up for you.
I look forward to seeing your beautiful faces in the zoom room as we gather together, celebrating community and worshiping God.
With love,
Rev. Michael Cronin