A Time to Learn was 2020

From our Lay Directors

Happy New Year!

That phrase takes on new meaning for me with the challenges of 2020. I'm ready to look back on 2020, instead of living in it. However, I have learned much from 2020 because I had time to learn yet again that:

1. God loves me. From John 4:18, "There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear." I reminded myself often that God is still in control, continues to love me, doesn't want me to live in fear. I want to continue to live in love, not fear.

2. God has a plan for me. From Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." This, of course, is not a guarantee of a life without hardship. We are not in heaven yet. But there is hope. And a future. Even when I cannot imagine what that future could be because my life has changed from what it was.

3. Placing my trust in God is the way to peace. From Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Whenever I tried to lean on my own understanding this past year, I did not live in peace. When I trust in God, I can let go of my worries for what is not mine to control. Which is pretty much everything.

I'm looking forward to seeing you and hugging you before too long. I am now even more grateful for this movement, for all of you God-loving people who know well how to love and serve God and our fellow pilgrims on this earthly journey.

God bless you! Your Brother and Sister in Christ,

John Lyons Kathy Otermat

lyons5876@gmail.com kotermat04@gmail.com