The Bible says in 1 Peter 5: 10 “But the God of all grace, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”

Instead of letting our hard times cripple us, we can rise from them with more grace, more gratitude and a new perspective on life. God may have put us through the fire so we could come forth as gold. Though the fire was hot and in the moment it seemed like you would never make it through, you did! With Him by your side, you can make it through anything.

Does this mean that God wants us to suffer pain and hardship? On the contrary! Christ is known for his deep love and compassion for us, and He came to this world as a baby to put Himself in our place– to experience earthly sorrow just like we do. But He also wants what is ultimately best for our lives– what will bring us closer to Him! Sometimes, that may be a trial.

Last March, we were all struck with a trial. One that, unlike most trials, affected almost everyone in the world. We all experienced the trial differently. Some grew deathly ill, or lost loved ones. Some suffered job loss and tough financial times. Some, both children and parents alike, were affected by school closures. Some suffered all of the above!

It is not for us to know why it all happened in the way it did.  But we as Christians do know that He was with us every step of the way. With our unique perspectives and experiences, we all learned something different. In this issue, you’ll find articles about how various members of the Church of God at Connoquenessing came through– what inspired them, and what they will remember.

We at the Church of God at Connoquenessing wish you a wonderful holiday season and health and happiness for your friends and family’s future. If you keep Him first, He is sure to bless it.

~ A Irwin