We just got finished with Bible study and I am always amazed at God’s Word that comes forth.  As pastor, I must emphasize and encourage you to participate in an active Bible study group.  If you are unable to make it to the studies offered at Mount Zion, please find one that can accommodate your schedule.  It is so difficult to be a growing disciple of our Risen Lord without being in His Word.  We are beginning to study the Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew and we just completed the first portion of chapter one which is a genealogy.  After looking at this genealogy, we begin to see why this is the beginning of the New Testament.  It is so full of life, and promise and awesome stuff of God.  I know, some of you are going to go read it and say, “What is he talking about?  It’s a bunch of names that I can hardly pronounce!”  Well, take my word for it, there is more to it than the eye can see on the surface.  No… don’t take my word for it, come and join us and find out.  Maybe, make it a New Year’s resolution to join us in Bible study.

            To begin the new year by making a resolution is a common practice for many.  I notice that the YMCA has more people in January than in December.  I notice my diet tends to change in January, with good intentions at maintaining a healthier diet throughout the year.  I notice how difficult it is to develop new habits and maintain new routine.  I notice that by mid-February, I’m eating a huge Chimichanga, with rice, beans, chips, salsa, guacamole, sour cream followed with a Baby Ruth and a cookie or two.  And that’s just for lunch!!  To be honest, I would rather change to a healthy diet by my own choosing rather than to be forced to make a change because of my failing health and at doctor’s orders.  Yet, the knowing and the doing seem to be two separate things.

            Of all the promises we make at the beginning of a new year, may this promise carry us in hope of real newness, this being that the promise of God in Christ Jesus is not two separate things.  Jesus’ saying and doing are one in the same.  And Jesus promise and call to you is not a separate part of your life.  It is your life.  May this year of 2008 be a year in which this truth continues to be nourished and sustained in His Living Word.

Happy New Year to all,

Pastor Dan
Contact Pastor Dan at: pastor@mtzionelca.com