Below is a message addressed to the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Inter-America from President of the Inter-American Division, Elie Henry–IAD News Staff
December 29, 2023 | Miami, Florida, United States | By: Elie Henry, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Inter-America
Hello Brothers and Sisters, Happy Sabbath.
We have reached the last Sabbath of 2023, and that is why I address you with an invitation to celebrate and reflect.
As we look back at this year, we cannot help but marvel at the immeasurable goodness of our beloved God. As we think about the plans and initiatives of the church, we find that His powerful hand has guided us successfully. In each struggle and challenge we could see how the Lord led us through meadows of peace. Even in times of pain and uncertainty, His arms of refuge were always outstretched.
I am sure that you, like me, experienced His sustaining grace each day of the year.
And now, as we prepare to welcome the new year, we carry with us the lessons learned, but above all the certainty that God will continue to be our constant guide. In the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians, Chapter 4, and verses 6 and 7, we find a comforting promise that we can adopt for each day of 2024: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
May this new year be an opportunity to grow in faith, hope, and love. Let us continue to trust in God, with the assurance that His plan for us is one of well-being and prosperity. May every step we take reflect the light of Christ and may our lives be living testimonies of the work of the Holy Spirit.
May the peace and joy of God fill your hearts, your homes, and churches during the New Year.
Maranatha!