A Look Back (and Ahead)

One of our favorite things about the start of a new year is looking back. At the end of December every year, there are plenty of yearly recaps—lists of the top songs that were stuck in our heads, the movies and shows everyone was talking about, the biggest headlines that shaped our conversations, and the moments that made us laugh, or pause, or take note. Like, how the phrase 67 shaped conversations with anyone under the age of 18? It’s a time when the world collectively says, “Let’s remember where we’ve been."

That kind of looking back is healthy. It gives the opportunity to see how we've grown, what patterns emerged (positively or negatively), where we need to give thanks, where we need to make changes. And as one year ends and a new year begins, that spirit of reflection has led our family to something especially meaningful.

Jessica, Noah, and I realize that we have now been at BSLC for two years. That simple sentence is filled with so much gratitude, joy, and thankfulness to God.

From our very first days here, you welcomed us with open arms. You welcomed us not just as a pastor and his family, but as fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Over these two years, we have shared worship and prayer, laughter and tears, celebrations and seasons of challenge. We have watched God at work—in hearts, in families, in our youth, in this congregation, and in the community around us—and it has been a tremendous joy to be part of what God is doing here week after week in worship, Bible study, Small groups, preschool, missions, etc. We have gathered around Word and Sacrament, trusting that God is faithful to do exactly what He promises through them. Through it all, God has continued to remind us that this is His church, His mission, and His work—yet He graciously invites us to be part of it.

For Jessica and Noah, Beautiful Savior has truly become home. We are thankful for your friendship, your encouragement, and for the many ways you have loved and supported our family. Ministry is never something a pastor’s family does alone, and we are deeply grateful for the care you have shown us along the way. Thank you for being the church. Thank you for your faithfulness, your generosity, your prayers, and your love. Thank you for walking together in this mission God has given us. We are excited for what God will do next—at Beautiful Savior, in our community, and through each of you.

As we look ahead to the new year, we do so with excitement and trust. We don’t know everything that lies ahead—but we do know the One who goes before us. The same God who has been faithful over the past two years will continue to be faithful in the year to come and in the years beyond that. He will continue to gather His people, grow His church, and share His saving love with a world that desperately needs hope. Along with these new opportunities, the new year also brings a renewed reminder that our confidence is never in our plans or efforts, but in Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

My encouragement for you as you conclude this year: look back and give thanks for God’s faithfulness, even in moments you didn’t recognize it at the time. Look around and see how God has placed you within His people, His church, and His mission. And then look ahead with confidence—not because the path is clear, but because Christ is. The One who has carried you this far will not stop now. He goes before you, walks with you, and holds you fast. Whatever this new year brings, rest in this sure promise: God is faithful, and His grace will be enough.