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Dear San Marco Church Family: It was a real gift to spend time away during the week of Thanksgiving! Colleen and I have always enjoyed traveling together, and I find that traveling expands my view of how God is at work in people and places in ways I never imagined. As I meet new people and hear their stories, I admire the strength and perseverance demonstrated in navigating life’s challenges and obstacles. Now we are in the Advent season. We are not yet celebrating Christmas. Rather, we cultivate a perspective on how to wait with expectancy, patience, and a deep longing for a better world. I believe that God has placed within all human beings a seed of hope that embraces faith that God has not, and will not, give up on the beautiful world God created. If you find yourself struggling this time of year, keep in mind that scripture tells us that God understands us and is actively at work for our benefit. Romans 8:26 tells us, “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” I love this description because it describes the deep, visceral need in the human heart for God’s comfort and redemption. I believe God placed that longing in us so that we continue to pursue God’s grace. Remaining curious and asking questions about how God is at work in every situation is a great way to keep hope alive despite struggle. This Sunday, December 7, is the second Sunday of Advent. The scripture passage for the message is Matthew 3: 1-12, and the message is entitled “Prepare the Way.” We will also hear from a representative of Better Together, a local nonprofit that is doing great work to help struggling families. I look forward to seeing you in worship Sunday. Thank you for your ongoing prayers and support of our church and community! Steve
stevehart100@gmail.com
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