Pastor's Weekly Word

The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom;
and the favor of God was upon him. (Luke 2:40)

Every now and then in the life of any community, there are moments that stand out. This line from Luke is the bookend to a time like that. Jesus has been presented in the temple, his family is returning home afterward, and then comes this line. Luke puts it there to help summarize the growth of Jesus, but I think it also serves well as a descriptive for the pride in his parents’ hearts. They are deeply proud of him, and like any parent who experiences a proud moment with their child, they confidently see a bright future. After all, moments like that stand out.

Sunday at Canyon Creek was another one of those “stand out” moments as the youth of the church led us all in worship. They led every aspect of each service, and they did it in such a way that clearly communicated their faith in God and their love of this wonderful community. As their pastor, I was filled with pride. I looked at each one of them as they led us all together, and my heart wanted to sing. I, like everyone else their no doubt, could easily see a bright future for each of them. The line Luke uses to describe Jesus, I could easily use to describe the CCPC youth. I deeply believe that they will become strong, filled with wisdom, for the favor of God is upon them.

I give thanks for each and every one of the young people at Canyon Creek. Thank you for helping point us to the love of God this week. We are better people because of it.