by Chris Steele

December 30, 2007

First of all, I want to thank the congregation for your kindness and generosity in the gift of money that was presented to us last week. We are always so blessed by you all.

Secondly, no doubt we all have certain thoughts and emotions that stir within us as we close out one year and begin another. For Carrie and I, it is at this time every year, that always brings additional thoughts to our minds as we mark another anniversary together with all of you here.

How grateful we are for the love, fellowship, and joyous Christian life that we have shared through these many years. There is great joy and thankfulness in our hearts for each and every one of you; and not for you only, but also for all those that we have loved through the years who now have gone on to their reward.

We are grateful for the many years we have shared together so far in this life. But as James said, we “know not what shall be on the morrow” (James 4:14).  Therefore, it is our prayer that if it be our Lord’s will, we may continue together in the work at hand throughout this coming year of 2008.

As we study together, may we all grow in the grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). We pray that he will grant us more opportunities to sow the seed of the kingdom and bring many others to Jesus Christ. As the Lord blesses us with more time, may we grow closer together in love and compassion for each one of our brothers and sisters at River Road, as well as those in Christ in other places. 

It is my prayer that we will continue to stand for what is right and good.  Let us always desire truth and be strengthened by God’s Word. May we never lose sight of our goal to be in heaven and share in the riches of eternity with our God. Thank you all so much for who you are and all you do.