On 1 January 2026, I learned that a former elder and one of the best people God ever put on this earth (Mr. Sam Cooper) had passed away. Shortly after, I learned that a fellow military veteran and very good friend lost both parents in a car accident. This doesn’t seem like a great start to the year, but some of the positives like establishing of reestablishing better relationships, developing our inner strength, and increasing our appreciation for life can help us grow as individuals. And God is there to help.
One of these people was really close to the Lord. He anticipated his passing and probably looked forward to it. I didn’t know the others but hope they did also. None of us know when Christ will return, but He will return. Neither do we know when our time is up. What I do know is, waiting to have a relationship with Him is not the answer. Isaiah 55:6 reads, “Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near.”
As we go further into this new year, I pray those of us who have relationship with Him will make it stronger. That we will grow stronger as a church. That we will be co-workers with the church to carry out God’s will for us. That we would become the shining, the light, that helps others see and seek Christ and the Kingdom. Jeremiah 29:13 states, “If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” There are riches in a relationship with the King and “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21)
Let's Change the World Together 