Does turning a page really make a difference? What makes turning the calendar from December to January such a significant event?
In reality, some things don’t change, of course. The sun rises and sets just about the same time as the day before; the weather and the season remain almost the same. So what is it that makes the new year different?
This year will mark a significant change for our U.S. political system as a person who has never before held public office is sworn in as president of the United States.
Turning the page will bring other changes as well. For many individuals and organizations, December 31st marks the end of the fiscal year. Reports and tax forms for 2016 will need to be filed soon.
Turning the page may, for some, also mark a time to start a new habit or discipline, whether spiritual or physical.
For members of the Fellowship of Christian Assemblies, the 2017 January 15th deadline to renew or list (if you’re new to the Fellowship or weren’t listed in 2016) is fast approaching. Today would be a great time to end procrastination and commit again to be part of a great family of churches and ministers.
Here’s a thought for the New Year: If a regular contribution to the FCA has not been part of your church budget, now is the time to begin. (The online registration forms tell how to do it.) Being part of the FCA is much like being a member of a local church: the more we engage with it, the more we invest our time and treasure in it, the more impact we will have—and the greater blessings we will enjoy.
If you haven’t yet started making plans, this is also a good time to mark your calendar for our annual convention April 25 – 28, 2017, hosted by Gracepoint Gospel Fellowship in New City, New York. Pastor Jim Cymbala from the Brooklyn Tabernacle will be one of our keynote speakers. I look forward to seeing you there.
In Christ’s service,
John Sprecher
Lead Elder FCA/USA
