In a world filled with distractions, it’s easy to lose focus on what truly matters. The hustle of daily life often pulls us away from the core of our faith, leaving us disconnected from God, each other, and the community we are called to serve. But this year, God is calling us back—to Him, to one another, and to the world around us.

A Call to Covenant
The concept of covenant is woven throughout the Bible, beginning in the garden of Eden where humanity had perfect communion with God. Yet, sin created a chasm that disconnected us from Him. In Genesis 12:1, God called Abram to step out of the familiar and into a covenant relationship:
"Now the Lord had said to Abram: ‘Get out of your country, from your family and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you.’"

This call wasn’t just about leaving a physical location—it was about leaving behind comfort, tradition, and everything that tethered Abram to the world. It was a call to deeper faith and trust, much like the call God places on us today.

Faith Without Works Is Dead
In James 2:20, we are reminded: “But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” Faith is not passive; it’s active and alive, requiring both trust in God and obedience to His word.

This year, our journey as a church and as individuals will focus on three critical connections:

  1. Connection to God: Our personal relationship with Him must be the foundation. It’s not about cultural Christianity or empty rituals but about a vibrant, living faith that seeks His presence daily through prayer, worship, and His Word.
  2. Connection to Each Other: We are not called to walk this journey alone. Galatians 6:2 reminds us: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” We must support and uplift one another, showing Christ’s love through action.
  3. Connection to the Community: As a church, we are called to be a light in our city. Matthew 5:14 says: “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” We must be visible, present, and active in meeting the needs of those around us.

Breaking Free from Disconnection
Disconnection is a tool of the enemy, designed to isolate us and weaken our faith. It’s easy to slip into routines that resemble faith but lack the power of true connection with God. Cultural Christianity says it’s enough to show up on Sundays and check off the boxes, but God desires so much more.

In John 15:4, Jesus says: “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.”

To abide in Christ is to live in Him fully, to let His Word and Spirit saturate every part of our lives. This is the foundation for bearing fruit that glorifies God and fulfills His purpose for us.

A Mandate for Connection
This year, we are called to:

  • Deepen our personal relationship with God.
  • Strengthen the bonds within our church family.
  • Be the hands and feet of Jesus in our community, showing love and hope to those who need it most.

As we embark on this journey, let us commit to these connections with sincerity and purpose. Philippians 1:6 encourages us with this truth: “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.”

A Prayer for Connection
Heavenly Father, we thank You for calling us to deeper connection this year. Help us to abide in You, to love and serve one another, and to be a light in our community. Strengthen our faith and guide us as we walk in obedience to Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Let us walk boldly into this year, embracing the call to connect and covenant with God, each other, and the world around us. Together, we will witness the transformation that only His Spirit can bring.