Friday, January 9, 2026

Happy 2026, Friends!  "Chimings" is back and today we read these words from Matthew's Gospel...
 
                 "Someone is coming soon who is greater than I am --- so much greater that I'm not worthy even to be his slave and carry his sandals."  (Matthew 3: 11 NLT)
 
"Don't think you are better than you really are."
   
Maybe a parent taught you that as you were growing up. Maybe your spouse has said something similar. If so, take heed ... it's a message God Himself spoke through the apostle Paul (Romans 12:3 NLT).  
   
Perhaps Paul was thinking of John the Baptist when he wrote these words. It was John -- miracle baby, prophesied forerunner of the Messiah, the greatest of all time in the estimation of Jesus (Matthew 11:11) --- who spoke today's scripture. Whatever John's goodness (and it was impressive)... he recognized he was nothing in comparison to Jesus.
   
And whatever our intelligence, ability, looks, wealth --- anything we can take pride in -- we are nothing in comparison to Jesus. The most impressive people in history have been (or will be) felled by death. That is everyone's human destiny. But if we keep ourselves in perspective, if we acknowledge Jesus as "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6 NLT), we gain all of Jesus' perfections and we can look forward to eternal life in God's presence. 
   
Don't think you are better than you really are. In fact, be very skeptical of yourself. Intentionally and regularly direct all the glory to Jesus.  
 
          Lord, forgive me for my pride. Help me humble myself before You, today and every day. Amen. 
 
+++ Sunday worship returns to 8:30am and 10:00am this week. Look for us at 8:30am in the Fireside Room and at 10:00am in the Sanctuary. This week we are celebrating the Baptism of the Lord and you will have a chance to remember and reaffirm your baptismal vows during worship! My message, "God's Affirmation" has me thinking about how God affirms us through God's love. If you can't join us in the church building on Sunday, look for us on the church's Facebook page for our "live-stream" at 10:00am and then on the church YouTube channel for the recorded worship service after it is completed. However you can join us... we look forward to "seeing you" in worship on Sunday!

+++ Following the 10:00am worship service, we will enjoy our Second Sunday Luncheon with our 2026 "Chili, Chowder, Soup Cook Off". We hope you have signed up to come and taste... and then choose the best tasting recipes. 

+++ Your 2026 giving envelopes are on the table in the Narthex, if you requested them. If you'd like envelopes but haven't yet asked for them please speak to Shelley to get a supply of envelopes just for you!  

+++ On Wednesday, Jan. 14th, we will offer worship at Camillus Ridge Terrace at 11:00am and then at Summerfield Village at 1:30pm. You are invited to join us for this time of worship and praise.  

+++ Thanks to all who worked so hard to put away all our Advent and Christmas decorations on Tuesday. Many hands made for lighter work and Julie and her teams did a great job. Thank you all!  
 
Make this day a great day and always remember to stay humble before God!   
​Pastor Jack