From The Pastor’s Desk
From the Pastor’s Desk…
The season is upon us, a time that brings joy and excitement to our hearts. Some will start to think of all the gifts to buy and the items they want for Christmas. Others will be making plans for parties or plans to head home for a visit. Others will be looking forward to the celebration of the season and all the fun. I sincerely pray that we are all preparing and looking forward to the celebration of Jesus’ birth. The season means something different for everyone, yet it is the same. We are preparing for the coming event, a time of joy and anticipation.
Advent began in the early eighth century, the beginning or first season of the Christmas year. Advent focuses on preparing for the coming of Christ. The Advent season always includes the four Sundays before Christmas Day. It begins with the Sunday closest to November 30 and ends with Christmas Eve day. During this season, we are challenged to fulfill John the Baptist’s call, “Prepare the way for the Lord.” Here are a few suggestions to follow for this Advent season:
Be intentional about attending all the services of worship.
Attend the special Christmas programs, from the Cantata to our Christmas Eve.
Remember to do a devotional at home each day. You can join our Churchwide Advent Study; see me for a book.
Make your Nativity scene the focal point of your decorations.
Give a special Christmas offering.
Make time to visit someone who is homebound or someone sick, whether they are a family member, a church member, or a stranger; we are all connected through Christ.
Call or write someone who will be alone for the holiday season.
Connect with an old friend.
Listen to your favorite Christmas music while sipping some warm Spice Tea or Hot Chocolate and watching the lights of your tree.
Be joyful and pass it on.
As we begin this Advent season, let us be prepared for the coming event. Let us open our hearts to the love of Christ and share that love with others through our words and deeds. This is a time to connect, to reach out, and to spread joy.
Let’s Grow Together in Christ,
Misty