It is so fitting that the theme for our current evangelistic series is titled “New Beginnings.” New Beginnings implies that we can start again—that we can exchange our former lives for a new life in Jesus, no matter where we find ourselves on life’s journey.
Last Sabbath, as a congregation, we witnessed individuals choosing to begin a new life in Christ by accepting the call and deciding to follow Jesus through the rite of baptism. According to the apostle Paul, baptism represents the death, burial, and resurrection of the believer who has chosen to follow in the footsteps of Jesus and be raised to a fresh start, renewed focus, and a determined purpose to make heaven their destination.
With a burning desire for a new start, how do we keep that decision alive? How do we continue running the Christian race without growing weary or slipping back into destructive habits and former aimless pursuits? The answer to that question is the focus of our new midweek prayer meeting series. Prayer meeting on Zoom is held every Wednesday evening and will conclude on New Year’s Eve, Wednesday, December 31, 2025/2026, at Willowdale Church.
In his book Secrets of the Vine, based on John 15, author Bruce Wilkinson shares a critical truth for living successfully after choosing a new beginning with Jesus. The secret is revolutionary: we must “abide”—remain—in a relationship with Jesus, the True Vine, every single day of our lives. John 15 reminds us that we are the branches (born-again believers), and branches disconnected from the Vine (Jesus) cannot survive. Christians must stay connected to Jesus daily. If we remain in Him every day, the new beginning becomes ongoing. But if we unplug—even for one day—we are helpless and hopeless in the battles of life.
In Christ, we are more than conquerors. In Him, we can flourish and experience the abundant life God has planned for us.
Maranatha!
Pastor Glenn DeSilva