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From Seasonal Tale to Lifelong Transformation: The Power of Christmas Every Day

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

In the heart of the holiday season lies the story of Christmas, which embodies transformation, hope, and the joy of togetherness. Yet, as the festive decorations come down and the rhythm of daily life resumes, the challenge often becomes how to sustain that Christmas spirit throughout the year. How can we nurture the warmth and light of this time, allowing it to guide us in the face of life's inevitable darker moments?One powerful sermon suggests that the key to year-round transformation is found by delving deeper into the message of hope from Jesus's birth. The Christmas story isn't just a seasonal tale; it's a reminder that we are not alone in our experiences. In the form of Jesus, God came to share in our joys and sorrows, offering a beacon of light in our darkest times. The profound change in characters like Ebenezer Scrooge from 'A Christmas Carol' illustrates the potential for redemption and renewal within us all.However, to keep the spirit of Christmas alive, more is needed to ride the wave of holiday emotions. We must forge a lasting connection with the message of Christ—a message that extends beyond the manger and into the very fabric of our lives. This connection to Christ's light can fuel our hopes and sustain our desires for peace, love, and joy long after the holiday season has ended.So, how do we embody the Christmas spirit every day? We can look at ourselves as candles, each carrying the flame of Christ's light. Our task is to protect this flame, ensure it doesn't flicker out, and carry it into the world's darkest corners. Wherever there is pain, loneliness, hopelessness, violence, and division, it's our role to bring the light of hope and the promise of transformation.Consider the candles we light during Christmas services—how each flame is passed from one to another, growing brighter as it spreads. This image serves as a metaphor for our own lives. When we embrace the light of Christ, we become bearers of hope, tasked with lighting the way for others. Even on days when darkness feels overwhelming, the promises of God assure us that light is never far from reach. Darkness, after all, is merely the absence of light.It's important to remember that transformation begins within. By connecting with the message of Christ and seeking the transformation He brings, we embark on a path of personal growth. We become equipped to inspire change in our communities and the world as we grow. By living the Christmas message of goodwill and hope daily, we actively participate in the world's healing, fostering unity and love.So, let us carry the lessons of Christmas with us throughout the year. Let us hold fast to the hope and joy it represents and let it be a catalyst for change within ourselves and in our interactions with others. In doing so, we'll find that the true spirit of Christmas is a gift not just for a season but for every day. This gift can lead to lifelong transformation and an unwavering sense of hope.

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Shaping a Legacy with the Light of Christ's Love

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As we walk through life, our every action and decision leave ripples that extend far beyond our immediate presence. But what if we could see the full impact of our choices? What if, like the fictional Scrooge, we were confronted with the haunting possibilities that lie ahead, guided by a vision of what might be if we continued on our current path?Such a thought experiment urges us to consider the transformative power of facing our potential legacies. The echoes of our choices are not merely whispers; they significantly impact the world around us. Reflecting on this profound reality, we can find guidance in living a life steeped in Christ-like love and holiness. The Future and Our ImpactOur actions today are the seeds of tomorrow's garden. How we treat others, how we speak, how we love—all of these are threads in the tapestry of our legacy. When we contemplate our lives through the lens of Christ's love, we begin to understand the weight of our actions and the indelible marks they leave.The story of Scrooge is not just a tale of Christmas past; it's a lesson in redemption and transformation. Scrooge's journey from a life of solitude and bitterness to one of joy and community serves as a powerful metaphor. It's a narrative that invites us to examine our own lives and consider whether we are cultivating a future of joy and benefit, not only for ourselves but for others.God's Promises for the FutureIn times of uncertainty, it's comforting to know that we have a compass in the scripture and the teachings of Christ. We are promised a future under divine sovereignty—a future of peace, without pain or division. This is not merely a distant hope but an unfolding reality that we are called to actively shape. As agents of God's kingdom, we can foster peace, justice, and community even amidst the shadows of our current world. With Jesus Christ as our guide, we have the strength and guidance to embrace and advance the manifestation of God's peace and unity today.Crafting a Future with the Blueprint of Divine LoveIf we believe in the promise of a world filled with peace and joy, why not start living out those values today? Our daily lives can be an expression of the divine future we await. By living in peace, seeking justice, and building community, we are crafting a present that reflects the promised future.The Christmas story, at its heart, is about God's redemptive plan coming to fruition through Christ. This season, and every day, offers us an opportunity to embody the principles of that story—love, giving, renewal, and hope. It reminds us that each of us has a role to play in bringing about the future God has envisioned.ConclusionIn this journey of life, let us consider how our choices today will echo into eternity. May we draw inspiration from the scripture and the example of Christ to live lives that ripple out with positive influence. Let us be courageous in confronting our future, shaping it with love, and leaving a Christ-led legacy that will resonate with joy and peace for generations to come.

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The Nativity You Know Is A Lie

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We’re all familiar with the scene. It’s a quiet, starlit evening, Mary and Joseph are reclining comfortably in a quaint country stable. Baby Jesus is sleeping, well, like a baby. As Mary and Joseph rested from their journey, reverent, orderly shepherds and noble wise men visited the happy couple and brought gifts to honor Jesus. That picture of the first Christmas is wrong. Not So Silent Night If we examine the actual circumstances surrounding Jesus’s birth, we find that it wasn’t what we’ve always been told. The 80-mile journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem would’ve taken at least four days on foot. It was a hazardous journey through rugged terrain, fields and rural towns. Mary was very pregnant, and probably under some emotional stress as a teen mom whose marriage was nearly over before it started (Matthew 1:18-21). At that time, animal stables in Bethlehem were dark, damp caves in which livestock slept and ate. This was not a tidy, sterile environment for a newborn. The shepherds in that region were social outcasts of low economic status and were looked down on by the rest of society. It was not a calm, comfortable, silent night. It was dirty, smelly, awkward and definitely not charming. Contrary to modern depictions, the wise men didn’t even visit Jesus immediately after His birth. They arrived at Jesus’s home when He was about 2 years old (Matthew 2:10). Well Meaning But Wrong Christmas carols and porcelain nativity scenes are well meaning, but they don’t do justice to the weight of the events that took place that night in the Israeli countryside. The most important thing we should remember about Christmas is that God came to save sinners (John 3:17). Jesus came from heaven into our mess, not because we deserved it, but because we needed it. As we celebrate Christmas, let’s remember the beautiful mess the nativity scene was. Let’s remember that no matter how messy parts of our lives can be, Jesus is for us and is with us. In the midst of our messes, Jesus joins us and begins to transform us, and that is something worth celebrating.

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Unwrapping Joy: Scrooge's Journey through Christmas Present

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

In the enchanting narrative of 'A Christmas Carol,' the character of Scrooge undergoes a remarkable transformation, evolving from a solitary and embittered man into a soul brimming with joy and generosity. Amidst the tale's timeless resonance, one pivotal moment stands out—the encounter between Scrooge and the Ghost of Christmas Present. This article intricately explores this episode, shedding light on the profound revelation that reshaped Scrooge's perception of Christmas and, consequently, his life. The Essence of Scrooge's Metamorphosis: At the heart of 'A Christmas Carol' lies a poignant reminder of the core tenets of Christmas—joy, hope, and redemption. Scrooge's journey is a beacon, illustrating past, present, and future interconnectedness in our personal narratives. "We celebrate that Christmas day, we remember Christ's first coming, we lift it up and hold it in our hearts each, every day, and lift it up every year, not only as a celebration of what God has done, but what God is doing and what God will do, because the reality of God's kingdom is that it is past, present and future." Scrooge's story urges us to openly reconcile with our past and embrace the present. Like the shepherd seeking the lost sheep, Christmas embodies God's relentless pursuit of the broken, infusing them with profound joy. This theme, woven into the fabric of the Christmas story, reflects God's recognition of what is missing in humanity and His divine mission to redeem us through the gift of His son. Unveiling the Absences: A crucial lesson from Scrooge's transformative odyssey lies in his realization of who is absent from his life. Guided by the Ghost of Christmas Present, Scrooge witnesses the jubilation and love surrounding Christmas celebrations—a joy he has unwittingly denied himself. Family gatherings, laughter, and festive merriment unfold before him, highlighting his conspicuous absence from these scenes. This revelation prompts a soul-searching journey, compelling him to identify and include those missing from his life in the warmth of his newfound celebrations. "Our world today has people who are lost in sin, lost in darkness, lost in pain and suffering, who withhold themselves, keep themselves away from the table, keep themselves away from the joy or have been excluded by others. And too often we go about our daily lives, too often we go about our weekly worship, too often we go about our normal way of being and don't pay any attention to who is missing." Discovering Radiance in the Shadows: Scrooge's tale serves as a poignant reminder that joy and hope can be unearthed even in the darkest corners. His journey into the past is a stark prompt for us to confront and grapple with our own histories. It calls us to be vigilant, identifying those absent from our celebrations and actively seeking ways to share the transformative joy and hope of Christ with them. In Conclusion: The redemptive narrative of Scrooge in 'A Christmas Carol' resonates as a potent parable of joy, hope, and redemption. As the festive season envelops us, let us conscientiously contemplate those missing from our celebrations and extend a genuine effort to include them. May our celebrations be a testament to the true essence of Christmas—sharing joy and hope with those around us, encapsulating the season's spirit in its purest form.

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Unwrapping Loneliness: Navigating the Shadows of Isolation During the Holiday Season

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

As the holiday season approaches, a time traditionally associated with warmth, joy, and togetherness, many find themselves wrestling with the shadows of loneliness. Reflecting on a recent sermon and the timeless tale of "A Christmas Carol," we delve into the dangers and challenges of loneliness, aiming to shed light on this often-overlooked struggle. In this blog post, we explore the impact of loneliness on our past, drawing parallels to Scrooge's journey, and offer insights on overcoming isolation during this festive season. The Ghosts of Christmas Past During this festive time that's supposed to be filled with joy and togetherness, it's important to recognize that the holiday season intensifies feelings of loneliness for some among us. Despite the cheerful decorations and the spirit of celebration, not everyone experiences the warmth of connection and shared happiness. This unspoken reality is a significant aspect that we, as a community, need to acknowledge and address. The recent challenges brought about by the global pandemic have made this loneliness even more pronounced. Social distancing measures, lockdowns, and travel restrictions have disrupted our usual ways of coming together. Families and friends may be separated by physical distance, making it difficult to share the joy of the season with our loved ones. While technology has allowed for virtual connections, it also highlights the tangible absence of being physically present with one another. In the story of "A Christmas Carol," we see reflections of our own struggles in the character of Scrooge. Like him, many in our community may find themselves feeling isolated due to circumstances beyond their control, emphasizing the shared nature of these feelings during the holiday season. Recognizing these parallels reminds us of the timeless themes that connect us across generations. The loneliness experienced by Scrooge serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to be mindful of our choices and their impact on our connections with others. This holiday season, let us come together as a community to support one another, reaching out to those who may be feeling lonely and ensuring everyone can experience the warmth of companionship during this time of the year. Understanding How Past Experiences Shape Our Present As we journey through life, our past experiences play a profound role in shaping our present reality. Much like the character of Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol," our past influences how we approach the holiday season and our relationships with those around us. Reflecting on Scrooge's life, we see how his past choices and experiences led him to a place of isolation. The ghosts of his past, present, and future revealed the consequences of holding onto bitterness and resentment. Similarly, our own past sorrows and pain can become emotional baggage, influencing our interactions and causing us to withdraw from the joy that the holiday season promises. Clinging to past grievances can have a detrimental impact on our present relationships and overall well-being. It acts as a barrier, preventing us from fully engaging with the joyous moments and connections available during this festive time. Just as Scrooge's bitterness affected his ability to connect with others, our unresolved past can hinder the warmth and openness needed for meaningful relationships. Embracing transformation requires a crucial step: making peace with the past. The ghosts in "A Christmas Carol" guide Scrooge towards this realization, encouraging him to confront and release the burdens of his history. Similarly, we are called to reflect on our own pasts, understanding that forgiveness, both of others and ourselves, is a powerful catalyst for change. By letting go of past sorrows and pain, we create space for new connections and experiences. This holiday season, let us collectively choose to release the grip of past grievances, allowing the spirit of joy and love to permeate our lives. As a community, we can support one another in this journey towards emotional freedom, fostering an environment where transformation becomes not just possible but a shared celebration of renewal and hope. Overcoming Loneliness: The Importance of Persistence and Invitation In the heartwarming tale of "A Christmas Carol," one of the most poignant moments unfolds through the persistent invitations extended by Scrooge's nephew. Drawing inspiration from this narrative, we discover a powerful lesson about overcoming loneliness – the transformative impact of persistent invitation. Scrooge's nephew, despite facing rejection and indifference from his uncle, remains steadfast in extending invitations for Christmas celebrations. This act of unwavering persistence is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the resilience of human connection. In our lives, we encounter individuals who may be navigating the holiday season in isolation, and it is incumbent upon us to channel the spirit of Scrooge's nephew. The power of persistent invitation lies in its ability to break through the barriers of loneliness. Loneliness often creates a self-imposed fortress around individuals, making it challenging for them to reach out or accept offers of companionship. However, this fortress begins to crumble when met with consistent and genuine invitations. The persistent act of reaching out communicates a sense of belonging and value, assuring those experiencing loneliness that they are not forgotten. As a community, we hold the key to unlocking the potential for connection. During this festive season, let us embody the spirit of Scrooge's nephew by persistently reaching out to those who may be feeling isolated. A simple invitation to share in the joy of the season, whether through a festive gathering, virtual celebration, or a heartfelt conversation, can be a lifeline for someone experiencing loneliness. In understanding the profound impact of persistent invitation, we become active participants in creating a community where no one feels left behind. Through these acts of kindness and inclusivity, we contribute to alleviating loneliness, fostering an environment where the warmth of human connection triumphs over isolation. As we extend invitations, we become agents of transformation, embodying the true spirit of the holiday season – a time of togetherness, compassion, and the power to overcome loneliness through persistent, heartfelt connection. Conclusion As we navigate the complexities of loneliness, let us remember that the Christmas season embodies a spirit of hope and transformation. Inspired by the lessons of Scrooge's redemption and the sermon's reflections, may we confront the ghosts of our past, break free from the chains of fear, and extend invitations to those yearning for connection. In doing so, we can turn this season into an opportunity for healing, rediscovery, and the creation of meaningful connections.

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Scrooge's Redemption: A Blueprint for Personal Transformation

Posted By Pastor Kevin Rutledge

As the festive season approaches, many of us relish in the familiar traditions that accompany it - the twinkling lights, the scent of pine, and the beloved stories that warm our hearts year after year. But have you ever paused to consider the profound wisdom nestled within these timeless tales? Consider the transformational journey of Ebenezer Scrooge in "A Christmas Carol" and the biblical tale of the rich man and Lazarus. Both stories underscore the fleeting nature of time, the profound impact of our actions and attitudes towards others, and the essential importance of treasuring traditions and memories. Scrooge's tale, in particular, resonates with many. He is a man burdened by his past, detached from the present, and terrified of the future. His story serves as a potent reminder of the chains we often bind ourselves with - chains of regret, fear, and complacency. But just as Scrooge learns, these chains can be cast aside, and our spirits can be set free. Just as the Christmas season brings transformation and renewal, we too can undergo our own personal transformations. But first, we must recognize the chains that hold us back. Are they chains of the past, holding us hostage to regret and past mistakes? Are they chains of the present, born from our current circumstances or struggles? Or perhaps they are chains of the future, our fears of the unknown holding us back from reaching our full potential. Recognizing these chains is the first step towards breaking free. But we don't have to do it alone. The promise of the Christmas season and the presence of the Holy Spirit offer us hope and help. By allowing ourselves to see these chains for what they truly are, we make the first move towards a more liberated, joyous life. In the spirit of the season, let's choose to confront these chains. Let's take that step out of our comfort zones and embrace the freedom that comes with transformation. Let's pay tribute to the power of Christmas classics that not only entertain us but also inspire and teach us profound life lessons. The tales we tell during this season aren't just stories; they are timeless wisdom passed down through generations. They remind us of the power of transformation, the beauty of tradition, and the possibility of a future unchained. As we celebrate the holiday season, let's remember to also celebrate our journey towards breaking free from our chains. The path to freedom and hope may be challenging, but it's a journey worth embarking on. After all, Christmas isn't just about the festivities; it's also about hope, transformation, and newfound freedom. So let's embrace the spirit of the season and begin our journey towards unchaining ourselves. Remember, no matter how far down you've fallen or how tightly the chains bind you, there is always room for an in-breaking of the supernatural. With faith and determination, we can all find our own Christmas Carol-style transformation this festive season. Let's step into this holiday season with hope, ready to unchain ourselves and embrace the joy that comes with true freedom.

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How To Have The Best Christmas Ever

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Close your eyes and picture the perfect Christmas. The smell of fresh-baked goods filling the house. The tree glistening with perfectly hung lights and a fire crackling as the kids play with new toys. We start December with high expectations, but all too often our quest for the picture-perfect day leaves us frazzled and stressed. The Christmas season becomes flooded with anything but joy as we race to find the perfect gift and open our homes to family, in-laws, and friends. This year can be different! Follow these two simple steps, and you can finally have the best Christmas ever. How to Have the Best Christmas Ever 1. Make the main thing the main thing. The best way to avoid turning into the Grinch this Christmas is to remember the point of the holiday. Christmas isn’t a task to complete or a burden to endure, it is a celebration of Jesus coming to Earth. John 3:16 says God loved us so much He sent His Son to make a way for us to have a relationship with Him.  The same way that a wedding is still a wedding with or without the pomp and circumstance, Christmas is still Christmas if we never open a gift or put lights on a tree. In both cases, the person, not the party, makes the day complete.  So don’t let the stress of making a list and checking it twice distract you from who the day is really all about. Jesus is God with us and the ultimate gift. 2. Choose peace over chaos. In a letter to the church in Colossae, the apostle Paul wrote about what it looked like to be alive in Jesus. He instructs the Colossians to, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15). This instruction is true for us today. We are called to live in peace, looking at our lives with thanks for what we have instead of complaining about what we don’t have. When we remember who our heavenly Father is, we realize we have nothing to fear. The same God who made the heavens and the earth tells us to call Him, "Dad." He is a good dad who doesn't let His kids go without. "Look at the birds of the air," Jesus tells His followers. "They do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?" (Matthew 6:25-34).   Real lasting peace comes from knowing whose we are. Spending time with God, remembering the sacrifice Jesus made for us, the stress of life slowly fades away. The chaos of the holidays is put into context.  So put down the cookie cutters, step away from the gift wrap, and rest in God’s peace. Your house may not smell like fresh-baked goods and your tree may not sparkle, but seeking Jesus and His peace this holiday season will ensure you to have the best Christmas ever.

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Two People Your Christmas Play Probably Forgot

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Growing up in a small town in the South, you didn't have to be a Christian to know the Christmas story. Every church puts on the same Christmas play and light display: baby Jesus lying in a manger surrounded by his parents, Mary and Joseph, the shepherds and wise men who traveled to see Him, and the angel who announced His arrival to the world. But if we look outside of Luke 2, we discover that Jesus' arrival affected a lot more people than those huddled around the manger that night. Two Lesser-Known People in the Christmas Story 1. Simeon (Luke 2:25-35) Simeon was a man who loved God. As a priest, Simeon was well-trained in Jewish law, literature, and tradition. He would have been an expert in God’s Word, having memorized the first five books of the Bible. Simeon knew the prophecies about the Messiah who was to come and rescue Israel. Not only that, the Holy Spirit told Simeon that he would not die until he saw the Lord’s Christ. People had been waiting for the Messiah for more than 400 years when Jesus was born. As the years passed, and Simeon grew older, he must have wondered if God was really going to come through on that promise. Then, the day Mary and Joseph presented Jesus at the temple, the Holy Spirit led Simeon to the temple as well. In the moment they met, a lifelong promise was fulfilled. Simeon took Jesus in his arms and blessed Him, telling Mary and Joseph all that Jesus would do. Imagine seeing a promise you’ve been clinging to come to fruition right in front of you. Maybe it’s the promise that your marriage would be restored, that the baby you’ve waited for is coming, that the sickness will be healed. Simeon’s story is a reminder to us that God always comes through on His promises. Our God is a promise maker and a promise keeper. 2. Anna (Luke 2:36-38) A prophet named Anna was also at the temple during this time. Anna was married for seven years before her husband died. By the time Jesus was born, she had been a widow for more than 80 years. Anna never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Her discipline and devotion over the course of her life put her in the position to meet Mary, Joseph, and Jesus as they walked through with Simeon. Anna then started to spread the news that this child was different. The Bible says, “she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem” (Luke 2:38). Anna saw years of fasting, praying, and worshipping culminates in that moment. As a result of her faith in the day-to-day, Anna witnessed the Son of God herself and had the opportunity to speak of the redemption and hope He would bring. Anna’s story reminds us that daily obedience and devotion puts us in a position to see the miraculous. The time we spend with God draws us closer to Him, and it’s when we’re closest to God that we’re best able to recognize His work in our lives. Jesus’ birth affected many more people than the ones we see in Christmas pageants and light displays. Jesus’ birth rocked Simeon’s world, Anna’s world, and ours as well. Without Jesus in the manger, we would not have Jesus on the cross. Without Jesus on the cross, we would not have salvation and we would still be separated from God. The Christmas story is one of prayers answered and miracles witnessed, promises fulfilled and hope restored. It’s an old story and a new story. It’s Jesus’ story, and it’s our story.

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Why Serving Others This Holiday Matters More Than We Think

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This Thanksgiving, I sat by an empty chair. My family, like all families, crams in our modest house for holidays. It’s a blur of jutted elbows, stepped on toes, and mismatched chairs. Our holiday gatherings aren’t the most spacious, but we make it work. A few years ago, my grandfather passed away leaving one chair empty at our table. Each Christmas and Thanksgiving since, that chair has represented him and the loss to our family. Time passed, wounds healed, and now there is space at our frantic holiday gatherings. The holidays, more than any other season, presents us with opportunities to serve people. My family has space at our table. And even if my grandfather was still with us, we would have room. We still have food and gifts. We still have a lot of things the Lord has so graciously given us. Who could be sitting in that chair? Who could eat our way-too-much-food and be a part of our little too off-kilter family? More importantly, would we be willing to open our hands and give? Serving others, especially strangers in need, can be uncomfortable. But when we step out of our realm of comfort, God shows us something new about Himself. Why Should We Seek to Serve? God is always doing something in our lives and in the lives of everyone around us. He intersects our paths with people at just the right time to the benefit of everyone. What happens in our lives is never just about us. Proverbs 28:27 says “Whoever gives to the poor will not want.” As we give of whatever we have, the Lord gives to us — more peace, provision, hope — whatever it is we need at the time. Opening our hands from whatever it is we are holding releases the power of God in our lives to provide more than we can imagine. Giving is a way we release control of our lives and trust God to do more than we could. Deuteronomy 15:11 says,“There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites…” There will never be a shortage of people to serve. There are many who are financially poor, lacking basic physical needs like food, clothing, and shelter. Others are relationally poor, finding themselves far from home or without family. Some are emotionally spent after a tough year, and facing the holidays makes their burden even harder to bear. Ask these questions: Who around you is lacking? Who has a gap in their lives? The lonely may need a family. The disheartened may need encouragement. The poor may need provision. And you very well may have what they need. Why Is This So Uncomfortable? In our minds and on our social media accounts, we picture pajamas and abundant food and full stockings. And often, giving away our things, our time, and our money changes that picture. We have a default setting — a way that is “us”-centric. Jesus works in our hearts to make us “others”-centric. Faith is about change. If our faith is growing, we will not stay the same. We will not do things the same way we always have. The Lord will push, prod, press in on us. He will lead us straight out of comfortable and into growth. Why Not You? We all have something to give. Jesus has blessed us beyond anything we deserve. The real gift comes to us when we give it away, even if, especially if, it is uncomfortable. Jesus stepped out of His comfortable home in heaven and into a messy, uncomfortable world. The more we do the same, the more we will understand the sacrifice Jesus made for us. Jesus stepped out of His comfortable home in heaven and into a messy, uncomfortable world. The more we do the same, the more we will understand the sacrifice Jesus made for us. And wouldn’t the best gift this holiday season be a greater picture of who Jesus is? My bank account isn’t flush, but this holiday season I do have an empty chair.

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Spreading Joy: 2023 Holiday Toy, Gift, and Gift Card Drive by Methodist Services

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The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and giving. It's a time when communities come together to make a positive impact on the lives of those who may be facing challenging circumstances. Methodist Services, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families in need, is once again gearing up for its annual Holiday Toy, Gift, and Gift Card Drive in 2023. Methodist Services: A Beacon of Hope Methodist Services is on a mission to make a positive impact on the lives of children, adults, and families who are dealing with difficult situations like limited resources, poverty, homelessness, disabilities, and educational inequities. They provide a wide range of life-enriching programs that cover early childhood education, school-age programs, housing services, family support, mental health and counseling services, and nutrition programs. Their holistic approach recognizes that every aspect of a person's life is interconnected. The Annual Holiday Gift Drive One of the heartwarming initiatives by Methodist Services is their annual holiday gift drive. In 2023, the organization aims to provide a special gift to each of the 1,200 children and teenagers they serve. Additionally, they plan to gift every participant in their Education, Housing, Counseling, and Care Management programs with a gift card. These gifts are not just material items; they represent a gesture of compassion and a way to bring a little bit of joy and comfort to those who are facing adversity during the holiday season. How You Can Make a Difference Methodist Services believes in the power of community, and they invite you to join their mission. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, can make a significant impact. Here's how you can get involved: Donate Gifts and Gift Cards: Consider donating new and unwrapped gifts suitable for various age groups. From board books for infants to video games for high schoolers, your gifts can make children's holidays special. Gift Cards: Families treasure gift cards from popular retailers like Target, Kohl’s, Walmart, Best Buy, and Old Navy. These cards provide flexibility and allow recipients to choose items they need or desire. Baby Care Items: Many of the programs serve young children and families who could benefit from donations of new car seats, bouncy seats, high chairs, boxes of disposable diapers of all sizes, and other baby care items. Gift Wrapping Supplies: Methodist Services also appreciates receiving wrapping paper, gift bags, and bows. These items make the presentation of gifts even more special. Let's Come Together The deadline for donations is the week of December 11th, so it's time to start thinking about how you can contribute to this wonderful cause. Your generosity can bring smiles and happiness to mothers, children, and others during the holiday season. By donating, you can help Methodist Services fulfill their mission of making children's holidays special and supporting families in need. As we embrace the spirit of giving this holiday season, let's come together as a community and show those facing adversity that we care. Your kindness can make a world of difference in the lives of those who need it most. Suggested Donations:Young Children: Infants & Toddlers: Board Books, Toddler Toys, Mr. Potato Head, Peg Puzzles, Push & Ride-on Toys, Bibs, Diapers & WipesPre-School: Ages 3-5 Years: Age-Appropriate Books, Mr./Ms. Potato Head, Age-Appropriate Toys, Safe Blocks, Art Supplies (Paints, Finger Paints, Markers), Playdough, Fun Foam, Kinetic Sand, Craft Supplies (Ribbon, Yarn, Fabric, etc), Trucks, Cars, Active Toys, Dolls (African American, Latino, Other), Wooden Puzzles, Dress Up Clothing & Accessories, Learning GamesElementary School: Ages 6-10 Years: Action Figures, Legos, 30 to 50 Piece Puzzles, Age-Appropriate Books, Sports Equipment, Team Apparel, Arts & Crafts Supplies, Trucks, Train & Car Sets, Dolls (African American, Latino, etc.)Middle School: Ages 11-14 Years: Age-appropriate books, Bi-Lingual Books and games, Arts and crafts Supplies, Science Kits, Robotic Sets, Beauty and grooming Items, Sports Equipment, Team Apparel, Jewelry, Video Games, Gaming SystemsHigh School: Ages 15-18 Years: Age-appropriate books, Gift Cards, Arts and crafts Supplies, Sports Equipment, Beauty and grooming Items, Jewelry, Video Games, Gaming SystemsYoung Adult: Ages 18-24 Years: Pillows & Twin Comforters, Twin Bed Sheets & Mattress Protectors, Towel Sets & Washcloths, Shower Curtains & Liners, Dish Cloths, Board Games, Journals, Small Room Trash Cans, Dish Sets, Pots/PansAdults in Our Programs: Books, Jewelry, Beauty & Grooming Items, Personal Care Baskets, Hats, Scarves, Watches Monetary Donation

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Christmas Notes from Pastor Kevin

Posted By Pastor Kevin

Merry Christmas! Hearing those words can bring a smile to my face, especially from a loved one. Oh, but there is so much to do between now and Christmas, and each day of December seems to tick by at a lightning pace. In addition to our everyday business of working, keeping the house clean, getting children to their activities, and staying connected as a family, this time of year adds Christmas shopping, Christmas parties, Christmas decorating, and Christmas itself.Before you start calling me a Bah Humbug, I love Christmas. I love seeing my children's faces light up when the Christmas decorations turn on for the first time, just like they did when they were younger. I love that our children are old enough to help decorate the tree without worrying too much about broken ornaments. Where I struggle, and I say this as a pastor, is how to keep still long enough to focus on the time of advent and Christmas and to make sure my kids also keep the meaning of Christmas in their hearts.Let's be honest. The idea of adding anything new to an already busy schedule is terrifying, borderline sitting in the corner of my office rocking terrifying. However, suppose your season is just as busy, but you want to focus on the hopeful waiting of advent and the celebration of Christ's first coming in Christmas. In that case, I offer a few suggestions to transform what you are already doing into moments of faith formation.Tree Decorating: I don't know about your family's traditions, but our family decorates the tree together, at least after I wrestle with the lights for an hour or two. Rebecca hands the ornaments to each child, and they find places to hang them. Rebecca and I usually hang the last ornament – a ceramic door with our last name over it – and then we take our picture. Offering a blessing before you start can transform this fun, although sometimes frustrating, task into a moment of faith formation. Here is something you can use to bless your tree as you decorate it:God who created the birds in the air, the fish in the sea,      the stars in the sky, and the trees in the ground,      bless this tree as we decorate it and make it a joyful symbol in our home. May its branches remind us of the shade and shelter      you provide for us and for many creatures. May its trunk remind us of your strength. May its lights bring us peace. May we remember your gift to us this season, the gift of the baby Jesus. Amen.       Blessing Your Christmas Tree – Buildfaith.com Spending time with your Church Family: This year, on Sunday, December 18th, we will have our musical celebration of Lessons and Carols, followed by our church Christmas Dinner. I hope you will carve some time out of your busy season for this festive occasion. It is an excellent opportunity to invite friends and neighbors.Longest Night Service: Let's face it, the Christmas season can be challenging for many people. Whether they are grieving the loss of loved ones, are feeling lonely, or can't seem to get into the festive spirit they see in others this time of year. That is ok, and this year we are adding a service to our Christmas traditions called “The Longest Night Service.” This service, held on the First Day of Winter, December 21st, is a low-key contemplative service meant to give prayerful space to those who find the traditional Christmas celebrations challenging to manage.Christmas Eve: We sing our favorite carols and hear the Christmas story. Berwyn UMC will have our service at 7:00pm. This traditional service with candle lighting and communion is a perfect opportunity to sit and rest in the light and hope that Christ’s birth brings as we listen to and sing our favorite carols to the Christmas story.Christmas Day: We will have an informal celebration at our standard worship time of 10:00 am. There will be lessons, carols, and a brief message. Whether you come decked out in your favorite Christmas attire or show up in your favorite Christmas Jammies, you are welcome to this time of Joyful celebration.New Year's Day: We will gather at our standard worship time of 10:00 am for the Wesleyan Covenant Renewal Service. The heart of the service focused on the Covenant Prayer, requires persons to commit themselves to God. Wesley found the service rich and meaningful, as expressed in his Journal: "Many mourned before God, and many were comforted" (April 1756); "It was, as usual, a time of remarkable blessing" (October 1765). "It was an occasion for a variety of spiritual experiences ... I do not know that ever we had a greater blessing. Afterward, many desired to return thanks, either for a sense of pardon, for full salvation, or a fresh manifestation of His graces, healing all their backslidings" (January 1st, 1775). In London, these services were usually held on New Year's Day. My goal this Christmas is not to add more activities and duties but to transform the things that we already do into meaningful ways of sharing the story of Jesus. You can find more details in this newsletter and on our church website at https://www.berwynumc.org/Christmas. What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions?May your Christmas be Merry and Bright, Pastor Kevin 

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