Church Family,
February often gets labeled as the shortest month of the year, but in the life of the church, it is anything but small. It is a month that invites us to slow down, pay attention, and remember what truly matters.
As we move through February together, we continue living into the season after Epiphany, a season that asks us to notice how Christ’s light shows up in ordinary places and everyday people. Epiphany is not about flashy miracles alone. It is about learning to see God at work in our homes, our community, and even in the quiet corners of our lives.
In worship this month, we will spend time listening to Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount. The Beatitudes remind us that God’s blessings often look different than what the world celebrates. Jesus speaks blessing over the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, and the merciful. These words are not about weakness. They are about trust, humility, compassion, and a deep dependence on God. My prayer is that these Sundays will help us hear Jesus speaking directly into our own lives, offering grace, hope, and direction. We also transition into Lent this month on Ash Wednesday, February 18th.
February is also a month centered on love, but not the kind of love that is limited to cards and candy. Scripture reminds us that love is patient, kind, and rooted in action. As a church, we are called to love God and love our neighbors in ways that are tangible and faithful. That love shows up when we pray for one another, when we show up for worship, when we serve those in need, and when we extend grace even when it is not easy.
I encourage you this month to look for small ways to live out that love. Reach out to someone you have not seen in a while. Offer a word of encouragement. Pray for our church, our community, and our world. These simple acts are powerful witnesses to the love of Christ.
As always, thank you for being the church. Thank you for your faithfulness, your generosity, and your willingness to walk this journey together. I am grateful to serve alongside you and look forward to all that God continues to do in and through Malvern First United Methodist Church.
Blessings,
Rev. Candace Barron
United in Hope. Growing in Love.