Brothers and Sisters, 

This is the final Fellowship Atlantic update you will receive for 2023. Thank you to all who have read through the emails we send out each week. I hope they have been helpful to you and your church in some way.

This time of year for churches is an interesting mix of two categories: “what needs to be done” and “what has already been done.” On one hand we have plenty of to-do lists for various services and as we think through ministry plans for the new year. On the other hand, we rejoice in God coming to earth to be one of us, to die for our sins, and to rise again for our justification (Romans 4:25). He who keeps us has given us His indwelling Holy Spirit, has provided all we need in Christ, and has promised to be for us and with us (even in the joys and sorrows of ministry) and to equip us for every good word and work (2 Thessalonians 2:17).

My encouragement to all of us is to make sure we don’t get our categories confused. You and I cannot do what God has done, nor can we do what only He has the power or authority to do. At the same time, we must do what God has called us to do. He will give strength and grace but He won’t do what He has assigned us to do in obedience and service.

So we Rest in Emmanuel, the One who has come to us to save and restore. We Rejoice in all that He has done and all that He has promised. And we Respond appropriately as we live out the gospel (Philippians 1:27).

I am so glad to be one of those who call themselves people of Fellowship Atlantic. I have been hearing some incredible stories of how God has been working in many of our churches, and I am so excited to see what He will accomplish in the days and weeks to come.

May God bless us and help us grow as the gospel impacts our homes and churches and neighbourhoods and world for Him. I hope to see you in 2024.

Andrew