As the pages of the calendar turn to a new year, there is always a sense of anticipation and opportunity. There is anticipation for the new experiences that lay ahead in the New Year. There are also the opportunities to start the New Year off right.

This is no different for us here at Zion. For us, 2008 holds much anticipation and opportunity. We start the year off in this month of January with two very exciting endeavors. First, as I have told you in previous months, we have declared 2008 to be the Year of the Word. We get that kicked off here at Zion as the people of God in this place make public commitments to be in God’s Holy Word on a regular basis. This means being in God’s House regularly, being in Bible Study regularly and also being in personal devotional study of the Bible. Commitment cards were included in the bulletin, but it is not too late. Simply contact me and let me know that you are participating. It is our goal to double Bible Study Attendance and double the number of people who are reading God’s Word daily. Come along with us.

In addition to the spiritual opportunities that come in the Year of the Word, we also have some congregational opportunities. Mark your calendars for January 26, 2008. We will be have a congregational retreat at Lake Williamson Retreat Center from 8 AM – 4 PM that day. It is designed for leaders and ALL members of Zion.

President Mueller of our Southern Illinois District will be leading this event that will lead us to identifying critical targets for ministry, goals and strategies to accomplish them. This is an opportunity for all the congregation to get involved in the future direction of the ministry. We have many gifted members that have good ideas. The plan for this day is to pool those ideas and come up with a plan for the future of the Gospel here in Staunton. Please be a part of this!!

We have been so richly blessed. 2007 was a great year. In 2008 we anticipate more of the same blessing. Please pray that the Lord of the Church will give us ample opportunity to grow as we carry out His work in this place.