Dear Friends,

A few days ago I heard someone say, "I am preparing for the new millennium. I’m a purest." For all of the talk about the changing millennium last year I haven’t heard much this year. Even though the purest person is technically correct and 2001 really is the start of the

next thousand year period on our calendar, it really doesn’t make much difference when you start counting the days.

On more than one occasion Jesus indicated people could change if they would just start from where they were to behave in a new way or head

in a new direction. We say that January 1 marks the new year. We talk about and some make new years resolutions. Some people even keep

their new year resolutions! That is the key. Not just promising to

change but carrying through with the changes.

The good news is that each day God will "make all things new." Each

day can be a new beginning. Each day God offers us a clean slate to

try again as we move on toward being all that God desires us to be.

As you begin this new year or new millennium, if you are a purest, do

so trusting in God’s love and grace. Know that the One who made

you and loves you will be with you to the close of the age.

Shalom, Tom