January 2023

Pastor’s Note and Intro to Knox News:

Goliath stood proud and curious at Night in Bethlehem as children dragged parents, siblings, and grandparents to see him. It’s not every day that you get to see a camel at church!

How often it seems we need to be dragged, nudged, or drawn to new sights, new convictions, and new friendships.

There may be plenty of things already on our mind and obligations we’re trying to fulfill that it sometimes seems our path toward maturity and growth is impeded. Soon we are stuck in worn out patterns of thought and behavior. What happens when we are not really on the lookout for ways to grow in faith, stretch in compassion, stand for justice, practice meditation, or increase our generosity?

Until a child gives us a nudge, or challenge reveals we don’t know where to go, we may not move. Often this is how God finds us and how Jesus, not only ignites our interest, but takes our hand and walks with us. Along the journey we will be baffled and astounded, we will encounter impediments and daunting challenges. This is why the Savior of the world stays with us and welcomes us into a discipling community like John Knox.

I look forward to this new year and all the ways Jesus is leading and drawing us into new dimensions of discipleship.  Let us respond in faith when Jesus gently invites us, “Walk with me.” 

Tom