In just the past weeks, our hearts have been shaken by tragedy. A school shooting at Annunciation here in our own community. The heartbreaking stabbing of a young girl on a train in North Carolina, while others stood by and did nothing. And most recently, the assassination of Charlie Kirk.  

These moments remind us we live in a broken world. They stir up fear, worry, and deep anxiety. They cause us to ask hard questions: What is happening in our nation? How do we carry hope in such dark times?  

What the enemy intends for fear and silence, God can use to awaken hearts and draw people back to Himself.  Let us put on the full armor of God and move forward with renewed strength found in Christ alone. We must live courageously, unashamed of the gospel, and unwavering in our hope. It's why our theme verse this year is so vital:  

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." — Isaiah 40:31  

Our strength does not come from ourselves or from this world. Our courage comes only through Christ. In Him we rise above fear. And we stand—anchored in Christ, refusing fear, holding fast to hope, and proclaiming the truth: Jesus is Lord, and He is our strength.