Jesus, January and Jazz, continued

In 1582, Pope Gregory adjusted the calendar so that January became the first month of the year. And in 1752, the British and the colonies adopted the same calendar which we call the Gregorian calendar.

So, it's January, a month that evokes mention of the Roman god Janus, the "two-faced" who looks for new beginnings, opportunities and transitions, and one who looked backwards. This is a perfect moment to consider which direction we're going as we face the year unfolding before us.

In last week's article, I stated that jazz musicians find a rhythm, a sense of urgency within their music. However, they are also willing to be "illuminated" by embellishing a melody. It seems, that jazz musicians find a "sweet spot" to get into the music that speaks a message.

The question for us as we enter the year 2019 is whether we will find that "sweet spot" of where we see God leading us as individuals and as a community of faith. Let's face it, Spring Creek will not look like it did five, ten, or twenty years ago. However, I believe God will lead us as to what we will be if will look forward through the eyes of faith, instead of looking backward toward what once was. And in this discussion, the Bible can help us, particularly, Paul's letter to the Philippians.

Pastor Steve

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Message Focus for January:

Jan. 6

Holy Conjunctions, Tension of Opposites, and Straining Forward

Philippians 3:4b-14

Jan. 13

God Didn't Say That?

Psalm 29; Isaiah 43:1-7

Jan. 20

Steadfast Love

Psalm 36:5-10

Jan. 27

The Gospel in "Street View"

Luke 4:14-21