New Beginnings

I always enjoy a new year because it is a time of new beginnings.  Christianity is uniquely about new beginnings.  The Bible begins with a story about "beginnings" pointing out that God is the great originator; He is the prime mover, the primal cause of everything that exists (Genesis 1).  He speaks and life comes into existence out of nothing.

The New Testament also points to a God who is the author of new beginnings.  2 Corinthians promises a fresh start for anyone willing to follow Christ Jesus and experience the life changing power of His presence.  2 Corinthians 5:17 reads, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"

What area of your life needs a new beginning?  Are you looking for a new career, better relationships, better parenting, or a change in your financial picture?  Let God begin a new work in you in 2011.  When we turn to God, a fresh start is a real possibility.  Happy New Year.

Christmas Eve and the New Year

Really lookin' forward to tonight's Christmas Eve Service at the Holiday Inn starting at 6 PM.  My kids are home enjoying the snow and I'm thankful it's not ice.  Join us tonight with your family.  The kids love the candle light part of the service.

Peace and Christmas!

It's almost Christmas!  Here a short list of the things I like about Christmas--the special music, time with family, candy canes, Christmas eve service, and all the stress.  Just kiddy on the last.  Stress is a big part of Christmas for a lot of people.  In fact, it is not uncommon for people to just want to get it over with.  This year, I want to encourage you to get past the stress of the Christmas season by focusing on the real reason for the season -- Jesus!

Jesus came for many reasons, but perhaps the most important is "reconciliation". Only JEsus can give us peace in our homes and peace in our world!  Merry Christmas! Pastor tom

Here is a link to "tell a friend" about the New Life Christmas Eve service http://impactSites.org/TellAFriend.asp?sid=kbi9j9h5i5hcn40yi561.

Prayer, Wisdom, and Grace

This week we wrap up our series on Colossians as we prepare for Christmas.  December 26th, we will share in a special message about the meaning of Christmas.

In Colossians Paul has remained focused on the supremacy of Christ in the universe, the church, and every area of our lives.  As he closes his letter to the Colossians he offers some words on prayer, wisdom, and grace.  He encourages us to devote ourselves to prayer.  Prayer is our pathway to God.  The more we talk with God; the more we walk with God.  I want to encourage you to take time individually and as a family to pray and to worship this Christmas season.  Join us Sunday as we look into the value of prayer, wisdom, and grace.  Pastor Tom

Destiny 2011

Looking forward to Destiny 2011.  That's our theme for January 2011.  We kick off the year with an emphasis on prayer.  A lot of people live life in neutral or "default", I believe God wants us to live life leaning towards our destiny.

What's your destiny?  Join us @ the ARC (10:15 AM) on Sundays in January as we discover God's plans and purpose for our lives.