January 2025 Newsletter Article

Hello Church Family,

Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, many of us are reflecting on the past year and making resolutions for the year ahead. Resolutions are a wonderful opportunity to grow, improve, and pursue new goals in our lives. However, as followers of Christ, there is one resolution that should always be at the top of our list: growing closer to Jesus and following Him more fully.

Psalm 1:2-3 paints a beautiful picture of a wise and blessed person: “ but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in
season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”

This passage reminds us that true wisdom and blessing come from delighting in God’s Word and meditating on it continually. It’s not just about reading the Bible or saying a quick prayer now and then; it’s about weaving our connection with God into every aspect of our lives.

The imagery of the tree is especially powerful. A tree planted by streams of water has a constant source of life and strength. It doesn’t wither in difficult seasons and consistently bears fruit at the right time. As believers, we are called
to be like that tree: rooted in Jesus, nourished by His Word, and sustained by an ongoing relationship with Him. This connection allows us to bless others and prosper in ways that glorify God.

So, as you make your resolutions for this year, consider how you can deepen your relationship with Jesus. Here are a few ways to stay rooted in Him:

1. Read His Word Daily: Commit to spending time in the Bible every day, delighting in His instructions and allowing them to shape your heart and mind.
2. Spend Time in Prayer: Make prayer a regular part of your routine, seeking God’s guidance, thanking Him for His blessings, and bringing your concerns before Him.
3. Connect with His People: Surround yourself with fellow believers who will encourage you, challenge you, and walk alongside you in your faith journey.
4. Bless Others: Share the love of Christ by serving those around you and being a source of life that points back to the true source of life, Jesus!

This year, let’s strive to be a church rooted in Jesus, drawing strength from Him and bearing fruit that blesses our community and glorifies God. Together, we can grow deeper in our faith and be a light in Oak Grove and beyond.

Your Brother in Christ,
Rooted Brett