As the cold, gray days of winter arrive and slowly fade, a transformation takes place in the natural world. Bare branches sprout green leaves, frozen ground softens for new blooms, and birds return with song — and I am ready. This yearly transition from death to life is more than a change of season. It is a profound, living picture of the spiritual renewal found in Jesus Christ.
Just as spring brings new life to the earth, Jesus brings new life to the human soul. Winter represents a season of dormancy, much like the spiritual “deadness” we can experience in our lives. Yet Jesus offers the opportunity to be made new, regardless of past mistakes or failures. As the apostle Paul writes, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Cor. 5:17 NIV).
Spring does not simply improve what already exists — it brings forth something entirely new from what once appeared lifeless. This is the essence of the resurrection. A seed must fall into the ground and die before it can produce new life. In the same way, Jesus’ resurrection stands as the ultimate victory over death and sin. He is the living “root” that can never die, sharing His life with all who trust in Him. And just as flowers bloom each spring, faith in Jesus offers the promise of eternal and abundant life.
From Our Missionaries
Ebenezer, West Little Rock: Ruben Isturiz writes, “I thank God for the opportunity to begin this new year by praying for each Ebenezer family. This year, four new families have joined the list, welcoming us into their homes with great joy. I ask you to support us in prayer, especially for those homes where the wives attend our church, but their husbands do not yet know the Lord.
“Due to recent snowfall, we suspended our in-person service last Sunday and met via Zoom. It was a blessing to hear testimonies of how God protected our brothers and sisters, provided heat in their homes, and brought joy to those who saw snow for the first time. We had a wonderful time of celebration.
“As for my health, I am improving. The cold weather has required me to rest and suspend my gym visits, as I must avoid breathing in freezing air. I trust God that I will make a full recovery soon, and I appreciate your prayers for my well-being.
“During January, Ebenezer is also joining our mother church in supporting the Caring Hearts ministry, a pregnancy help center. This is a valuable opportunity to serve our community.
“Thank you for your constant prayers and support. Let us continue praying for the projects ahead this year. To God be the glory!”
Faith Journey, Benton: Bryan Clay writes, “We hope everyone enjoyed a fun and safe couple of snow days. Due to the weather, we had to cancel our Sunday worship services, but ministry continued throughout the week.
“Before the snow arrived, we held seven small group classes with great participation. We also shared our monthly devotional at one of our local middle schools, providing pizza and dessert, and enjoying a meaningful time of worship and fellowship. The lesson focused on being the salt of the earth, reminding students of the importance of adding God’s love and truth to the world around them and sharing the gospel in everyday life.
“We are hopeful the roads will clear soon and that we will return to regular services and activities. Thank you for your continued prayers and support of Faith Journey’s ministry.”
“Misión Gracia Soberana (Sovereign Grace), NWA:Roberto Marcelletti writes, “Greetings, brothers and sisters in Christ. Because of the weather, there was very little we could do this week for the advancement of the kingdom. For safety reasons, we suspended our small group meetings, Sunday school, and Sunday service, as many of our brothers and sisters were unable to leave their homes.
“We are staying in contact by phone in case support is needed, and by the grace of God, everyone is well and safe. We are also doing well at home, and Patty has taken this time to recover from her back injury. I ask that you continue praying for her health. Blessings.”
Epic Life, Pea Ridge: Jake McCandless writes, (1/20) “Pray for us this week as we have our Discover & Connect Night Sunday at 5 p.m.! Both our groups met, and we had a great week. We’re looking forward to our outreach this Sunday, and we hope our social media usage impacts others to come check it out. It will be a chance to see what we do with a message and worship.
(1/27) “As with everyone across the state, the winter storm greatly affected our plans this week. We had our first Discover & Connect Night planned and had to cancel. Our second will be in a couple of weeks. One of our groups met before the storm, but not all of them. This week, it will likely be the opposite groups meeting. This seems to be the rough part of scheduling this time of year. We’re looking forward to rescheduling our Discover & Connect Night and pulling that off.”
