Henri Nouwen
Looking Forward by Looking Back
The expectation of Advent is anchored in the event of God’s
incarnation. The more I come in touch with what happened in the past, the more I come in touch with what is to come. The Gospel not only reminds me of what took place but also of what will take place. In the contemplation of Christ’s first coming, I can discover the signs of his second coming. By looking back in meditation, I can look forward in expectation. By reflection, I can project; by conserving the memory of Christ’s birth, I can progress to the fulfillment of his kingdom. I am struck by the fact that the prophets speaking about the future of Israel always kept reminding their people of God’s great works in the past. They could look forward with confidence because they could look backward with awe to Yahweh’s great deeds.
Dear Friends,
The ancient Romans had a god named Janus – the god of beginnings, endings, gates, doorways, and transitions. Many believe this month is named after Janus (although it might have been Juno). A unique belief was that Janus had faces on both the front and the back of his head. Hence, the ability to look forward and backward at the same time.
I know that 2020 was a tough year – filled with challenges, losses, and sorrows. We would all probably want to forget this nightmare of the past year and never look back. Still, there has been much to remember that was good in 2020. Most importantly, God has good and faithful. God has brought us through this past year and there is hope on the horizon in many ways. Yes, we will still have challenges, losses, and sorrows. But the Good News is that God will be with us as we step into this year. Furthermore, there will be joys, celebrations, and new opportunities as well. I encourage you to live in hope and faith as we see God put the pieces together for us as individuals, a church, a nation, and a global community. We are all God’s children and may the Spirit of Light and Love guide and bless us all!
Happy New Year!
Pastor Bill
Pittsboro Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
209. N. Meridian St.; PO Box 215
Pittsboro IN 46167—317-892-3245
Church Staff:
Rev. Dr. William J. Wassner
Office: Tuesday and Thursday mornings
Judy Parker, Secretary: Monday through Friday: 9:30 AM-3:00 PM
Kathy Kern, Musician
Shirley Boles, Nursery Staff
“Demonstrating the Love of God”
Sunday Worship – 10:00 AM
(Fellowship time to follow)
Rev. Dr. William J. Wassner, Minister
How to Reach Us
at Pittsboro Christian Church
209 N Meridian St
PO Box 215
Pittsboro, IN 46167
Parking available on the west side of the building off of Meridian Street
across from Pittsboro Elementary School.
(317) 892-3245