A word from Senior Pastor, Rev. Brock Bomkamp

Dear FMC Goldthwaite Family,

Welcome to December! As the calendar turns and the year winds down, we find ourselves entering the beautiful, contemplative season of Advent. It is a time characterized not just by the counting down of days, but by a spirit of anticipation.

In the hustle of holiday preparations—the lights, the lists, and the meals—it is easy to lose sight of what we are truly waiting for. This month, I want to invite you to slow down and look closely at the specific details of the Incarnation. When God chose to dwell among us, He didn't do it in the abstract. He entered our world through real people, in a real place, to weave a story of redemption that changes everything.

The People
God's plan involved ordinary people who were willing to trust Him in extraordinary ways. We think of Mary, who, despite the uncertainty, offered her courageous "yes" to God: "I am the Lord's servant... May your word to me be fulfilled" (Luke 1:38).  We think of Joseph, a man of integrity who chose obedience over reputation. We think of shepherds, rough and weary, who became the first evangelists.

When we look at the people of the nativity, we are reminded that God uses imperfect, ordinary vessels to carry His glory. He is still doing that today, right here in our church family.

The Place
It is profound to remember where this happened. It wasn't in a palace in Rome or a temple in Jerusalem. It was Bethlehem, a small village, often overlooked. The prophet Micah foretold this beautifully:

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel..." — Micah 5:2

Jesus was born in a humble manger because there was no room for Him in the inn (Luke 2:7). This reminds us that God often shows up in the "small places"—in quiet moments, in humble towns like Goldthwaite, and in the simple corners of our hearts.

The Story
Ultimately, Advent is about the story of God's great love. It is the narrative of the Creator becoming part of the creation to save it. It is the fulfillment of the promise that we are not alone. As Matthew records the angel's words: "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us") (Matthew 1:23).

This story didn't end at the manger; it began there. It is a living story that invites us to participate. We are called to be people of hope, waiting with expectation for Christ to move in our lives anew.

As we journey through this month, I pray that you find moments of stillness. Look for Jesus in the people around you. Look for Him in the places you inhabit. And let His story of grace rewrite your own.

I look forward to celebrating this season with you all. Let us prepare him room!

Grace and Peace,
Pastor Brock