Philippians 1:18-21 Yes, and I will rejoice, 19 for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, 20 as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.-ESV

It is always a wonder to sit with Paul in his prison cell, reflecting on his numerous sufferings, and to hear him say with such joy the great expectation and hope he had in Christ. From the outside, Paul had every reason to be pessimistic, doubtful, and anxious about the future. There were many times his mission was opposed, he was the target of anger and resentment from many, and Paul often faced rejection even from those you would expect to support him.

Still, Paul knew something I think we often forget. With Jesus as the source of our life and power, there is nothing that can truly harm us. The closer we trend to Jesus and his word, the more certain we can be that the future, whatever it may yet hold, will be one where Christ is honored.

This focus on Christ must now and always remain the focus for us at Hope Lutheran Church. Grand plans for ministry, service, care and love we might have, we must first make certain our eyes are firmly set on Jesus. Every other thing we need, mission, vision, resources, and the hard work that goes with that, every good thing we need will be provided according to the mercy and supply of our God. As James admonishes us, let us be quick to first seek his will and blessing for any of our plans.

I am eager for the days ahead. Excited that the Lord will bring our call process to a good end, hopeful for the ministry and evangelism we will do as his church, thrilled to see what God might yet do here with us at Hope and in Wake Forest.

I can’t wait to see what the Lord has in store for us this year. God’s blessings upon you and your family.

Hope in Christ with you,

Pastor Devin Murphy