December 31, 2025 WEST

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, this powerful gathering reminds us that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who testify to God's faithfulness. The reading from Hebrews 12 calls us to throw off everything that hinders us—not just sin, but every weight that holds us back—and run with perseverance the race marked out for us. We're challenged to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, rather than on our struggles or disappointments. The message emphasizes that discipline from God is actually a sign of His love, producing righteousness and peace in those who are trained by it. Philippians 4 reinforces this with the command to rejoice always, to be anxious for nothing, and to fix our thoughts on what is true, honorable, and pure. Romans 8 assures us that nothing—absolutely nothing—can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. The climactic reading from Exodus 14 shows God parting the Red Sea for His people, demonstrating that when we move forward in obedience, God fights our battles while we remain calm. The imagery of walking on dry ground with no residue from the past speaks prophetically to our crossing over into 2026—we're leaving behind what was, and the enemies that pursued us will not triumph. This is our moment to walk boldly, knowing that the cloud by day and fire by night still guide us, and that we're moving toward stability, dignity, and the fulfillment of God's promises in our lives.