The Gift of Peace

Good Wednesday to you,

This past Sunday we opened the "Alternative Christmas Market" for you to do some of your Christmas shopping. I suggested, in keeping with Sunday's Advent theme, this market gives us the opportunity to give the "Gift of Peace" to others. This is the peace Jesus offers us, peace with God, the knowledge we are forgiven and reconciled with God. Peace with God is key for peace within our hearts. This is unlike the peace the world gives. The world's peace is conditional and fragile; God's peace is stable and eternal. I hope you join me in giving the gift of peace to others through our alternative Christmas market this year.

With Christmas just around the corner, here are the times for our Christmas Eve services. Outside services for children and families are at 4:00pm. Come and celebrate the birth of our Savior, and bring bells to "ring in the birth!" The traditional "Candlelight Service" is at 6:00pm in the sanctuary.

This Sunday, following the 10:30 service, we are holding a seminar with Ian Noyes, from the National Christian Foundation. From 12:00 to 1:30pm, Ian will discuss year-end giving strategies and other topics for managing one's charitable giving. He will cover RMD's and DAF's. If you are unfamiliar with either one, then this seminar is for you. We will even feed you lunch! Please RSVP so we will know how many sandwiches to order.

Get ready for the annual Choir Christmas Concert, coming up on December 19th. The Choir will celebrate the birth of Christ in song at both services. The next day, Cookies, Cocoa, Caroling 'n Critters will make a return to the front lawn. Please plan on bringing a couple of dozen cookies to share. We will supply the cocoa, caroling, and critters!

In closing, I am mindful that yesterday was December 7th. Eighty years ago, our nation was attacked at Pearl Harbor. Many of us remember people who were there that day. Take a moment and give thanks to God for the people who continue to serve our country, and especially for all who pay the ultimate price for our freedoms. Thank you.

Next Sunday, we will look at "The Gift of Joy." I will be preaching from John 15:9-17. I can’t wait to worship with you on Sunday and celebrate the Lord’s Supper together!

Grace and peace,
Pastor David

If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!