Gospel Highlight

And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon Him … And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man. (Luke 2:39-40, 52)

These are the quiet years of Jesus’ life;—years when the most unusual thing that happened was the time His parents misplaced Him in Jerusalem for a couple of days and found Him again (see Luke 2). Other than that, what? A normal life for the Son of God. Learning basic life skills from His mother and carpentry skills from His father. Praying with His parents. Going to school with His classmates at the local synagogue. Learning to read and write. Learning to know the Bible by heart.

And throughout it all, there was the world around Him, from which He drew so many of His parables later. Harvest and planting. Shepherds with their sheep. Men out on fishing boats. Builders who did their job well;—or poorly. Families and their arguments.

During these years, Jesus was getting ready for the heart of His mission;—three years when He would teach, preach, heal, and finally save the people God loves through His own suffering and death on the cross. Three years until His death and resurrection;—which opened everlasting life to all of us who love Him. Just look how He loves us!

(This Devotion is from the Lutheran Hour Ministries.)

JESUS CONNECTIONS
The Epiphany of Our Lord

On Epiphany, we hear about the Magi who followed a bright star to find baby Jesus. They came with joyful hearts, ready to worship Him as the true King. King Herod also heard the news, but instead of joy, he felt fear and tried to hold onto his own power.

This story reminds us that when Jesus is revealed, we get to choose how we respond — with trust and worship like the Magi, or with fear like Herod. God invites us to follow His light and 

Follow the Light. Worship the King.

FMI on upcoming Jesus Connections events and learning, 
reach out to Teacher Stephanie

Fellowship for Sunday, Jan. 4  
Try Something New!


Feel like you've been making the same bakes all year? Let’s try something new!
Set yourself a new cooking challenge, just for the fun of it. 

It’s a new year with endless possibilities!

Men's Fellowship Breakfast

Gentlemen, it’s time for food, faith, and fellowship!  Join us this Friday, January 2nd 8:30 a.m. @ Toki Ona for a delicious breakfast, great conversation, and time to grow together in faith.

This is a wonderful chance to connect with other men, share experiences, and encourage each other in our walk with Christ. Everyone is welcome, whether you're new or a long-time member!

Bring a friend, and let’s make it a morning to remember! 

LWML New Year's Celebration!

LWML will be hosting a New Year's Celebration on Jan 3rd at 1:00 p.m., in the church fellowship hall. We will be doing potluck-style finger foods, so bring your favorite appetizer and a friend, sister, or mother, and join us for food, fun, and fellowship. A sign-up sheet will be in the hallway for a head count. 

All ladies are invited to attend.

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