Dear Family and Friends of First UMC of Torrance,`
As we step into February, a month often associated with love and connection, I am reminded of the Apostle Paul’s words in Galatians 6:2: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” This call to support one another lies at the heart of our journey as a faith community, especially during these uncertain and challenging times.
Throughout recent months, members of our church family have faced various trials—health challenges, family difficulties, financial uncertainties, and personal losses. These experiences underscore the importance of strengthening our spiritual resilience, enabling us to stand firm not only for ourselves but also for each other. Just as physical exercise builds our bodies, spiritual disciplines such as prayer, worship, studying Scripture, and acts of service fortify our faith and deepen our endurance. Together, we are called to embrace these practices, drawing strength from God and from one another.
This season also calls us to recommit to the mission and ministry of our church. We are not merely a collection of individuals but a vibrant body of Christ with a shared purpose. Through ministries such as teaching in Sunday School, feeding those in need, or crafting prayer quilts, we embody Christ’s love and make a tangible difference in others’ lives. Let us find joy and fulfillment in these efforts, recognizing that our collective work bears witness to the hope we have in Christ.
I encourage each of you to take time this month to consider how you can contribute to the strength of our community. Whether through prayer for those in need, active participation in a ministry, or reaching out to someone who could use encouragement, your involvement is invaluable. Know that God uses each of us to advance His kingdom.
Let us press onward with faith as our foundation, love as our motivation, and hope as our guide. Together, we can continue to grow as a church family that reflects the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs it.
With love and gratitude,
Pastor Jacob