December 2012 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

“For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder,
and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father,
Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and of peace there will be no end.”

Isaiah 9: 6-7a

The year 2013 will mark forty years of ministry for San and me. It is difficult for me to wrap my mind around that number, especially when my memory of landing in Montreal in 1973 is still so fresh and vivid. From the earliest days, even before we had our first child, I had a real love for children. I taught them as a YMCA instructor during college, then as a graduate teacher, and later as a social worker. I would persist until I won them over, and they loved me as I loved them. I always had an inner sense I would be working with the little ones, even during my 28 years as pastor. Their innocence, humor, and open hearts were always fascinating. When San and I began our own family, the love and awe I felt toward my own children never waned.

Schoolgirls from Boca de Tomatlan

Now, once again, San and I are caring for children, and the love and concern hasn’t ceased but increased. As we arrive to give hot lunch, they charge out of the classrooms to express their love and give and receive hugs. If they see us coming, they will wait until we arrive so they can receive love, care, and affirmation. Isn’t this what we all need—to be loved, to be cared for without condition? What would sum up my years of studying, praying, preaching, and caring for children and adults (who are many times merely children in an older person’s disguise)? Only to “Love God and Love Others.” I realize the statement is not original. Jesus said all of the laws of God were encapsulated in these two commands.

This Christmas Season and in the coming year, I encourage you to receive God’s love for you, and love Him back; to give God’s love to others with no expectations or strings attached. This will set you free. Don’t fret over the latest theological shift, or new charismatic teaching, or what is cutting edge worship music. Just love God and love people. It makes life so much simpler, and delightful!

Thanks for your love and support. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Randy and Sandra Barr