I pray that the holidays were kind to you and filled with joy. It’s always a gift to spend intentional time with loved ones, take breaks from our daily routine, and celebrate all that God has done and is doing in our lives and world. I know that this time can also be one of grief, pain, and loneliness for some; if that is you, I pray an extra portion of comfort and peace to you.

As our students transition back into our community, they come bearing with them the baggage of the break. Many had a great time and are arriving rested and refreshed; others are finding a return to school as an escape back to normal and safety. Like every community, we are a mixed bag, and emotions will be running high during these first couple of weeks.

Please pray for our students, faculty, and staff. Pray God’s blessing upon them, and that all would find comfort and peace within our bounds. And for those of you who know specific individuals on campus: reach out, send a note or a sonic gift card, check in on their soul. This small gesture can make all the difference in someone’s life, and might be just the thing that they need to keep going.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support of our TLU community. May God bless you immensely in this new year.

—Pastor Wes