To the flock . . .Small Blessings

It seems like most of us have more stuff than we need, and still, I loved looking at the presents under the tree, wondering what might be in them. It reminded me of the saying, "Good things come in small packages." Or was it "great" things, or "big" things... When I was small, my siblings and I always clamored for the biggest packages first. Before the presents were even unwrapped, we would protest if someone else had a bigger box under the tree than we did. But as I grew, I learned to treasure the small package--it could contain something wonderful, unexpected.

I have begun to understand Windsor Presbyterian as a kind of "small package" blessing. Our congregation is not large and neither is our budget. However, this "small package" church is a great place to belong and grow in faith.

Our church has a wonderful and rich history. There were many good ol' days; and yet, I am convinced that God's Spirit is at work at Windsor and that the best days of this church still lie ahead of us. I see signs--we are growing in faith, we are growing in love for God's word, we are praying, we are attracting more people who need a place to belong and believe, and we are walking faithfully into our future together. God is blessing our congregation. What better way to celebrate God's blessings, than by counting them? In worship, we will start the new year by reflecting on the Beatitudes to learn about living a life blessed by God.

It is my prayer that in 2011, God will bless each of you with increased faith, help you grow as a person, and surround you with a supportive community of faith, friends, and family. The session is calling the congregation to a Season of Prayer from Epiphany (January 6) through Pentecost (June 12). Please join us in praying as we discern God's plans for our church. The session prepared a Guide for Prayer to help focus your prayers. It is a good starting place and guide for your daily prayers. Pray without ceasing!

May you know God's blessing this year!
Shamaine