Looking Back at 2021

​Through the grace of God, we have reached the final week of the year.  I phrase it as such because as we began 2021, we carried a faint hope into the new year of what it would entail; however (as per normal) the reality was much different.  Obviously, the hope of Covid leaving was quickly dispersed as the Delta variant was discovered, and now we have moved on to the Omicron; this set a tone for the year.  Enough about Covid.  Many set out this year with intentions to accomplish various plans and ambitions, only to discover God had other plans for their lives, and they went home before the year ended.  That part saddens our hearts.
 
As we look back over our shoulders as a congregation, even during this Covid infested year, there were still some bright spots which bring smiles to our faces.  I will highlight a few. It was because of the generosity of our family members that the dream of attending school for many young children in Africa has now become a reality.  The poverty of their parents was overshadowed by the hearts of our congregation, and now young minds full of potential are breaking the cycle of poverty through (Christian) education.  The year also contained a wonderful campaign of providing financial assistance to those in peril in India.  My heart was overjoyed when the final total was calculated, as the amount far exceeded my expectations for this effort.  I thank God that He touched your heart in such a magnificent way, enabling us to be a part of this humanitarian effort.  Also, closer to home, as per our usual, 50 families were fed during Sack-the-Pulpit.  Unfortunately, you aren’t privy to the comments I hear from the schools.  Year after year they are blown away by the kindness of our little group as we share our two fish and five loaves with those in need.  Lastly, as we delivered Christmas gifts for the kids at Keewahdin Elementary, the office staff was so grateful for what we did for the children.  Each time we would return to the office with more presents (there were quite a few), the office staff would express their disbelief that we would do such a thing.  We have spread some significant seeds for the Kingdom in 2021, and plan to do likewise in 2022.
 
In 2021 (like 2020), Covid has derailed our normal activities which I realize left many disappointed.  Even with the good news that we would resume meeting in the building, it was still far from our normal. For those experiencing this frustration, I want to remind you we made an impact in Africa and India.  We also blessed people in our community. Although limited by the virus, God still provided us with opportunities to bring glory to His name; and as you always do- you rose to the occasion and went beyond what was asked or expected.  Yes, 2021 wasn’t all we hoped it would be, but remember we never know what God is going to do with the good we were able to accomplish.  So, I ask you (in your prayers) to thank God for these opportunities and for that which we were able to participate in to bless His kingdom. 
With 2022 right around the corner I can assure you the coming year will be full of many changes, possibilities, a few surprises and unfortunately more heartache.  But God be thanked that as His kingdom continues to march on, we are among the saints in the procession.
 
Blessings for the coming New Year!
-Lamar