I’m writing to you from my parents’ home in Winter Haven, FL. God has been kind to my family as we enjoy our time together as a family, reminiscing and planning together. I will miss worshipping with you at New Life tomorrow, but I’m so very thankful the rare gift of worshipping with my brother, who is also a pastor, hearing our uncle preach. Yesterday, my parents’ pastor, pastoral resident, and an elder from Cypress Ridge PCA came to their home to celebrate the Lord’s Supper. What a joy to sing, hear the word, and partake of the supper together. The joys of what my Dad faced filled my heart as we sang:

And then one day, I'll cross the river,
I'll fight life's final war with pain;
And then, as death gives way to victory,
I'll see the lights of glory And I'll know He lives!

What a promise of hope we have in Jesus Christ!

I will miss worshipping with you tomorrow but am thankful for the Lord’s provision to feed his flock. In AM worship, Rev. David Billingslea, RUF-International Minister at UC San Diego since 2023, will preach from Luke 19:1-10 on “The Two Seekers.” David has a huge desire for international students and scholars to be evangelized while they study in the United States. That desire leads to a tender heart for Christ’s Church and the lost. Prior to UCSD, he did the same work at UT-Dallas for five years. David has been married to Meredith for over fifteen years, and they have two daughters. In PM worship, Rev. Dr. Danny Hyde, Minister of Word & Sacrament at Oceanside United Reformed Church and a long-time friend of mine, who has faced his own seasons of mourning, will encourage you from Ecclesiastes 9:11–12, unfolding the theology of Heidelberg Catechism, Lord’s Day 1, in: “The One Thing I Want You to Know on a Sunday Evening!”

Young people, especially, should take the opportunity to hear his message.

Friends, take advantage of the opportunity you have to worship together tomorrow. So many across the country will not be able to worship together due to extreme cold and heavy snowfalls. Many in our own congregation will be absent because of illness and disease. What a blessing it will be to see each other and turn your eyes to the heavens to see our God shining his face upon us!

Love & blessings,

Pastor Joel

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