In today's Message About Purpose and Strategy, I'll wish you a belated Merry Christmas. At the time of this writing, I'm still looking forward to our celebration of Christ's appearance in Bethlehem's stable. I'm also looking forward to getting our power back on! We've been without electricity since the weekend (and that means water for us as well because we're on a well). Maybe no internet at the holidays is actually a good thing. Big branches have fallen across our driveway, all our food from the fridge is out in the snow, and we're using wood for heat - it's as if we're camping! Many of you have had similar opportunities to forge memories together this season.

Many verses in the Bible teach that we can grow through times of adversity. They essentially communicate that hard times can bring us to God and bring us together with others as well. Many of us have experienced this.

Times are tight for families, businesses and churches alike this year. In these tough times, we trust in God. That is the strategy I've got in mind right now. Just give him the glory he deserves and trust that he is able. May the events of this season draw us all to the Lord himself.