“I bet you can’t wait for 2011 to be over,” I was told/asked several times in the last few weeks. “2012 has to be better!” they said, assuming that I agreed with them. 
    I had to admit that there were elements of 2011 which are better left behind.  Stress, sadness and pessimism seemed pervasive.  Loss seemed to outweigh gain, and even our congregational finances were “in the red” for the first time in 15 years. 
    But when I took even a couple minutes to consider 2011, the blessings lavished on us, the mission done in Christ’s Name, the growth in faith experienced by so many people lifted me and brought me to gratitude for another year of God’s Grace.  I become more and more aware that a great deal of what God does through Good Shepherd goes unnoticed by many, both members and community people as well.  The music ministry, the education ministry (have you gone downstairs to see what our Preschool is doing?!), the quilters, the youth, the workers at the food pantry and Country Store….there are many ways that God’s Kingdom is moving ahead through this part of the Body of Christ called Good Shepherd! 
    A short movie is being produced which will give a few glimpses of some of the many mission and ministry activities of 2011.  No one (me included!) can see everything that has been done.  That is why we trust that much more is happening than what any of us actually view.

But this movie may broaden your awareness, and increase your joy, for much has been done in 2011, and we look forward to not only continuing, but accelerating the pace at which God’s Kingdom work is being done, not only nearby, but around the world, in 2012! 
    I am grateful for all God enabled us to do in 2011.  I am excited about what God will do through us in 2012!