Pastor Harry’s Thoughts for December

A Season of Hope

Dear Bath Church Family, 

As we enter the month of December, I find myself pausing more than usual — not because the year is ending, but because this season always brings me back to the heart of our faith. Advent is not just a tradition; it is a reminder that God keeps His promises.

The prophet Isaiah declared, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9:2). That light was Jesus Christ breaking into a weary world with hope that has never dimmed. Every Advent season, we remember that moment — and we allow God to rekindle that light in our hearts again.

Walking Through Advent 

Beginning Sunday, November 29 — the First Sunday of Advent — we step into four weeks shaped by four powerful words: Hope. Peace. Joy. Love. These are more than candles on a wreath. They are the steady work of the Holy Spirit in us. They are the promises of God unfolding in our daily lives. Hope reminds us that Christ is our anchor when the storms of life try to shake us (Hebrews 6:19). Peace reminds us that Jesus came to calm every anxious heart with the words, “My peace I give you” (John 14:27).  Joy reminds us that our strength is found in the Lord, even in difficult seasons (Nehemiah 8:10).  Love reminds us that everything God has ever done — including sending His Son — flows from His deep, unchanging love for us (John 3:16). In a world that feels unsettled, Advent gently lifts our chin and helps us look toward the One who never changes.

The Gift of Christ’s Presence 

One of the verses that stays with me every December is Matthew 1:23:They shall call His name Immanuel,” which means, “God with us.” Not “God above us,” watching from distance. Not “God around us,” present but passive.   But God with us — here, near, present, invested, and faithful.  We never walk through grief alone.

We never face uncertainty without His guidance Christmas is not merely a celebration of a baby in a manger it is the declaration that God stepped into our story, and He has no intention of leaving. My prayer for you this December is drawn straight from Paul’s words in Romans 15:13:

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” May Christ fill your home with His presence. May He quiet the noise and strengthen your faith. May He renew anything the year has worn down.  May He remind you that His promises are still true — every single one. And if this season finds your heart heavy, please hear this: you are not forgotten. The same Jesus who was born in Bethlehem sees you, loves you, and holds you even now.

A Word of Gratitude 

Church family, I want to thank you — deeply. Your faithfulness, your love, your willingness to serve, your care for one another… these are the things that make this congregation shine with the light of Christ. Paul wrote, “I thank my God every time I remember you” (Philippians 1:3), and that is exactly how Jennifer and I feel.

And speaking of Jennifer — many of you often comment that you enjoy seeing us serve together, and that means more than you know. What you may not always see are the countless ways she supports this ministry behind the scenes: praying with me, encouraging me, loving this church, and lifting my heart when the days feel long. She has a ministry to this congregation that is quiet, steady, and filled with grace. So allow me to say this from both of us: We are grateful for you. We are praying for you.  And we truly love this church. As we close 2025 and prepare to enter a new year, Jennifer and I want you to know that we count it a privilege to walk this journey with you. Thank you for embracing us, for loving us, and for allowing us to shepherd you with joy and humility.

Looking Toward Christmas and a New Year

As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, let us hold tightly to these words:

“For unto us a Child is born… and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). He is all we need. He is all we hope for. And He is faithful in every season that lies ahead.

May the peace of Christ guard your hearts (Philippians 4:7). May His joy strengthen you. May His love surround you. May His hope lead you into the new year with courage and confidence.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Harry & Jennifer