I LOVE CHRISTMAS...
Christmas is definitely one of my favorite times. My thoughts are filled with warm memories of days gone by and anticipation of days to come. I can only imagine what Mary and Joseph felt on that first Christmas night, the arrival of the promised One, their first born, a baby boy, "Jesus". I can relate - sort of. I remember the birth of each of our children. It is one of the most amazing, life changing, and incredible experiences that I have ever had. And it makes me admire my wife even more!
An amazing thing happened at the birth of our first born. Yes, I realized that I now was a Dad, but for the first time I understood more clearly and deeply the love that God has for you and me and showed when He sent his Son. I realized that though my love for my children is as deep as humanly possible, it does not come close to that of God's love. No matter what kind of earthly father you have, and I am lucky to have one of the very best, it does not compare to that of our Heavenly Father. His love is deep, amazing, and often indescribable. Honestly, it is this love, unconditional love, that God has for us that allows you and me to truly celebrate the spirit of Christmas. And we can experience this, not just during this awesome season, but everyday. During this Holiday Season, in fact, right now... (PAUSE for 30 seconds right now). YES, as you read this ... I want you to stop what you're doing. Pause, be still, and let the love of God engulf you. Now experience the love, true love, of Christmas. Pretty amazing!
Sadly, this past week, due to uncontrollable circumstances, we had to cancel the Children's Christmas Program. We are hoping to include the Children's Caroling in our Christmas Eve Service which is on December 24 at 5:30. This is such a special service. I hope you, your family, your friends, your neighbors will all join us.
Finally, on a personal note, I want to invite you to join Patti and me for breakfast in the Grace Center this Sunday morning. This is a small gift from our family to yours. And the food is good! Following breakfast, we will move into the Worship Center. Sunday is week four of Advent. We will light the "Love" candle, also known as the Angel's candle.
Again, please join us! And always remember...
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie