Faith @ First - February 6, 2026
One of my favorite traditions is Family Valentine’s Day. It’s something Jevon and I look forward to each year—not just as a couple, but as parents who want to be intentional about how love is practiced and passed on. We celebrate our relationship, and we also take time to show love to our children in tangible ways. We write them notes, choose a new book just for them, and make sure to include their favorite chocolates. These small gestures are not extravagant, but they matter deeply, because they teach our children that love is something you choose and nurture.
In a world that can feel rushed, harsh, and even loveless, we want our children—and one another—to know that love can be steady and sincere. Love shows up. Love pays attention. Love is formed not only through words, but through faithful care over time. Those daily practices of love shape who we are and what we value.
That same intentional love shapes us as a church family. Just as we make promises of love within our homes, we are invited to make commitments together as a community of faith. Through our financial pledges, we say, “I believe in what God is doing here, and I want to help sustain it.” Our generosity allows love to become visible in ministry, mission, worship, and in the care we offer to one another and to our neighbors beyond these walls.
As we preach and teach about the power of love, I invite you to respond in love. Please prayerfully consider making an annual pledge that helps ensure our ministries and programs continue to share the love of Jesus in our community and beyond. You may make your pledge on our website or by returning the pledge card you will receive in the mail. However you choose to respond, know that your generosity makes a real and lasting difference.
This Sunday in worship, we will continue reflecting on love as I preach on the theme, “What Love Is Not.” May our hearts be open to God’s wisdom as we continue striving to be an inclusive community that embraces all people with the LOVE of Christ—no exceptions.
And before worship, I hope you’ll join us Friday or Saturday night for our “Songs About Love” Musical Revue. Tickets are available online and at the door.
Come be surrounded by love—in music, in community, and in joy.
Keep the Faith@First,
Pastor Nicole
