On My Mind...

It’s December?  Already?  Are you kidding me?  I trust you had a blessed Thanksgiving and that you are organized, focused and in full sprint toward Christmas.  Me neither!  But I’ll get there.  It is easy during these days to be so busy you really don’t stop and think about what is really important.  It’s not about the “perfect” gift for the kids or grandkids.  It’s not about the decorations, parties, fellowships, Christmas cheer or even family.  It’s about the love and kindness of our God.  It’s about His gracious provision for our sin.  It is about the advent, the coming of the Christ to suffer, die and rise again to redeem a wicked, sinful people for the glory of God.  So, I beg of you, slow down.  Take time to reflect on the wonder of God’s mercy.  Take time to consider the price paid for your sin, for your rebellion.  We can complain all we want about how secular the world has gotten.  We can bemoan how the world doesn’t understand.  But maybe, we need to put Christ back in Christmas?  

Don’t misunderstand me.  I love the traditions of this season.  I love the old movies, Miracle on 34th Street, The Bishop’s Wife, Christmas in Connecticut, and White Christmas.  I’ll watch Rudolf, I’ll sing along with Frosty the Snowman, and I’ll tear up during A Charlie Brown Christmas.  I love peanut brittle, all the Christmas candies, all the special treats, fruitcake and…well, not fruitcake but you get the idea.  Watch the shows, sing the songs, enjoy the feasts just keep things in perspective.  Don’t get so busy you forget to worship at the feet of our King.

This is the week of prayer for International Missions.  Use the prayer guide from Sunday’s worship folder and pray about your gift to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.  I’m looking forward to our service Sunday evening as we gather for the hanging of the greens.  A special time of music and readings as we welcome the Christmas season.  The choir and our children’s choir will be singing.  I hope that you and your family will join us.  If you need a ride let us know.  Just call the church office and we will make arrangements for you.  Don’t forget to bring some of those Christmas goodies to share in the fellowship following the service!

I’m looking forward to worshiping with you as we gather this coming Lord’s Day.  Have a blessed week, and I’ll see you Sunday.

Rod