A sermon from Fr. Nathan

As a new year begins, we’re invited to reflect on the rhythms that shape our lives—both the joyful milestones and the difficult stretches that test our faith. Drawing on the imagery of pilgrimage from Psalm 84, this our sermon explores what it means to journey toward God through valleys marked by weariness, sorrow, or uncertainty, and to discover that even these places can become sources of life. Rather than avoiding hardship, we’re encouraged to prepare for it by cultivating practices that make us ready to receive grace when we need it most. Jesus himself models this kind of preparation through learning, prayer, community, and trust in the Father, long before he reaches the darkest moments of his path. The invitation is simple: to make space for grace, to walk from strength to strength, and to trust that God meets us faithfully in every season ahead.