Baptism weekends at Living Hope are always filled with so much anticipation and excitement. New commitments to Christ, lives being change, people being reconciled. It just doesn't get better than that. Baptism has made a huge impact on my life. For me it was a public declaration that I was going to follow Christ for the rest of my life. I wanted everyone to know that my life had truly been changed because of Gods love for me. It was also a new starting place, to begin a new life in His power and not my own. The people attending my baptism prayed for me, helped, and encouraged me on my new chosen path. When I think of Baptism I think of 2nd Corinthians 5:17 "Those who become Christians become new persons. They are not the same anymore, for the old life is gone. A new life has begun!". Some people think that baptism is optional or just a good idea. Jesus tells us in Mark 16:16 to believe and be baptized. A life marked by obedience brings confidence, joy and peace, knowing that you have done what Christ has asked you to do. If you have accepted Christ in your heart and are wondering what the next step is, Get baptized this weekend. If you have already been baptized come and pray and encourage someone who is. See you on Sunday! Pastor Jon Andersen

I was sitting here wondering about all the New Years resolutions that have been made, and really how many will be kept. I was never very good at keeping them myself, but I do love the opportunity to have a fresh start in an area that needs improvement. My struggle with making a resolution is, I am on my own to try to make it happen. For me a revelation from God always gives me hope because He always has buy in on the project. Revelation can happen any time, any place and all through out the year. It usually starts in the heart and ends with a prayer for help. It also gives me some hope that it will come to pass, because it was God's idea in the first place. So if your like me and have a little trouble keeping those New Years resolutions, take some time and ask God what He wants changed in you, he has revelations for you and me that can truly change our lives all through out the year. God has big plans this year and I don't want to treat them like resolutions, but welcome them as revelation from Him. Happy New year from Hockinson Living Hope! Jon Andersen