A New Your for the New Year - Rev. Donnell T. Wyche - a2vc.org. Like us on fb.com/vineyardannarbor or watch our livestream Sundays @ 10:45am - vimeo.com/annarborvineyard

Pastor Donnell Wyche welcomed the congregation into the new year with a message of hope and transformation, inviting everyone to embrace the promise of “A New You for the New Year.” Drawing on the spirit of renewal inherent in the season, Pastor Donnell highlighted how the new year offers us the opportunity to leave the past behind and step into a future filled with hope, promise, and potential. He explored how Jesus’ desire for us aligns with our resolutions: to live lives of joy, meaning, and freedom from worry, rooted in trust and dependence on God. Using John 10 as a central text, Pastor Donnell unpacked Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd, who offers us abundant life, care, and protection, inviting us to experience life in its fullness.

In a reflective and practical exercise, Pastor Donnell encouraged the congregation to examine the fears and struggles they carried from the past year. He led them to write down what disrupted their peace in 2024 and the missed opportunities to trust Jesus. This act of naming the challenges was a step toward letting go of burdens and stepping into 2025 with renewed trust in God’s provision. Pastor Donnell emphasized that Jesus knows each of us intimately and is present in every moment, ready to transform our fears into opportunities for growth and trust.

The sermon concluded with an invitation to discernment. Pastor Donnell encouraged the congregation to listen to the whispers of the Holy Spirit, step into the gaps in the world where God’s kingdom has yet to fully break through, and take risks to reflect God’s generosity and love. Through practical acts of faith and obedience, we can cultivate a deeper sensitivity to God’s presence and experience the abundant life Jesus promises. The new year is an opportunity to let go, take risks, and live as joyful, free, and faithful disciples.