Dear Church Family and Friends,

During Advent, we reflect on the birth of Jesus. As Scripture reminds us, For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:11).

But Christ is not just a Savior or the Lord (i.e., God, Master, Supreme Authority), Jesus Christ is our Savior, our Lord (our God, our Master, our Supreme Authority). As the Church, we are under the headship of Christ, and we are His hands, His feet, His vessels to bring honor and glory to God. So how do we do that?

As I mentioned some weeks ago, 1 Peter 4:10 was the key, for me, in understanding why the master in the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) got so angry at the servant who hid the talent even though he returned it to the master intact. 1 Peter 4:10 says:

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.

God has bestowed His grace upon each and every one of His children — abundantly, generously, lavishly — so that in all things at all times, having all that [we] need, [we] will abound in every good work (2 Corinthians 9:8). That is, so that we would faithfully administer the gifts we have received.

At this time of year, our leadership team is beginning to prayerfully plan for next year. To assist in our financial planning, we invite you to prayerfully consider the financial commitment the Lord would have you make to First Church in Pembroke for 2026. Pray, then listen for His answer. If the amount God lays on your heart is greater than your usual giving, do not worry. Trust in God s provision, remembering that whoever sows generously will also reap generously (2 Corinthians 9:6). I can say from personal experience that my God has supplied all my needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19), and I am confident that He will provide for you, too, if you will trust Him. Ours is a faith walk.

Enclosed is your pledge card for 2026. Please return it by placing it in the offering plate or mailing it to the church office. We would like to have all pledges returned by January 11, 2026, so the budget can be ready for our Annual Meeting.

May God continue to bless you as you seek to serve Him faithfully.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Joy