The Holy Spirit is an essential part of our faith, as the enduring presence of God in each of us and throughout the world. The Holy Spirit gives our spiritual gifts, comforts us, and intercedes for us. Understanding some of that work, it’s easier to see why it’s impossible to remain the same after the Spirit touches your soul.

We are people with a story. Our story is one of victory. The powers of the world don’t win. Our sin doesn’t lead us to condemnation because the love of God has overcome them. Death doesn’t have the final word because Christ is risen. It’s up to us to share that good news with those who do not understand.

So, why do people give things up for Lent? Lent is the 40 days leading up to Easter (not counting the Sundays). Lent developed to acknowledge Jesus’ time in the wilderness before entering his public ministry. The early church used this time to prepare new converts for baptism.

It’s February. Many of us are still wondering what happened to Christmas, but here we are, entering the season of Valentine’s Day. As always, this means that we’re going to hear a lot about love over the next few weeks. That’s not a bad thing.

This new year is like that for us as a church family. We’re starting a new chapter in the great story of this church. I’m excited to see how God will move among us in this part of our journey.