Goodbye 2020, Hello 2021

Hello, neighbors! This last year has been something else, to say the least. I do not know about all of you, but I
am ready to be done with 2020. Although this year has been difficult, dealing with all the changes caused by the pandemic, I believe that a lot of good has happened, too. Let me take some time to reflect back on these last few months. Then we can talk about what is to come in 2021.
Since my arrival in July, we were able to worship together outside all summer long. Marble has added some
new technology to enhance our worship experience. Vicki Charter and Tim Kartje have blessed us with sharing
the Word on Sundays while I was gone. The Outreach Team sent cards of encouragement to the teachers at
Paddock Elementary School. The people of Marble assisted the team by donating $775 in gift cards to Aid in
Milan. We weren’t able to hold our annual Goodie Sale, but instead, had a Bake-less Bake Sale that raised just
over $3,100. I feel blessed being appointed here and having the opportunity to serve our neighbors despite the
obstacles of 2020.
Looking forward to 2021, I see an open road in front of us to take and see where God leads us. Yes, what lies
ahead may include some more changes to Marble. We need to prepare for what is next when we can open the
doors of our building again. The beginning of this next year is the gateway to allow us to turn things around in
the neighborhood. I realize these might be difficult things to hear after all that has taken place here in the last few years. Also, I know some are hesitant to follow a new pastor knowing there are no guarantees on how long they will be around. Regardless, we need to unite and reignite our fire for God in order to move forward. Will you join me in making 2021 a great year?
In the next couple of weeks, I want to share more details of my vision for this next year and the future of
Marble. As for how I will share this information, I would like to discuss things on Sundays, via Zoom meetings,
or individual visits if needed. Please understand that parts of this plan will feel like sprints and other will be
more like a marathon. On average, it takes four to seven years to make real change happen. May we be of one
heart and mind as God leads us to serve our neighbors. May we represent Christ in all that we do. May everyone around us know that they are loved and valued. Does this sound like a something you could be a part of? I pray that it is and ask you to pray on it, too.
Realistically, the start of 2021 is not going to be that different from 2020. My hope is that this next year ends
even better, and that Marble grows from this experience. The key is that we maintain hope and let our faith be
bigger than our fear. Happy New Year!
Peace be with you, neighbors.
Pastor Matt