We now enter the holiday season and looking back at this year, we think about all the moments we encountered which were very different than in the past. Many activities and normal events were cancelled due to the pandemic. Those moments missed bring a few tears to my eyes as I am sure it does yours? We also recognize many of our life’s experiences test our patience and can threaten to take away the joy that comes with the gospel story of Christmas. Perhaps, more than ever, we may find ourselves longing and looking forward to the big event. After all, Christmas reminds us that God is at work even in the struggle and beauty of life. Despite difficult circumstances, Christmas isn’t, and will never be, cancelled.
As a reminder we are currently hosting our Sunday worship online only. All in-person services have been suspended until further notice but that does not mean that we will not celebrate Advent and Christmas. We will return to in-person worship as soon as possible and will notify you when that time comes. Until then, let me encourage you to explore how and why we come together virtually to worship the Christ child at Christmas.
Think about that first Christmas when God entered the world through his son Jesus. John 1:14 says,
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
In that Bethlehem moment, everything changed for all of eternity. When Jesus was born, we beheld the glory of God in-person. When Jesus was born, He gave us the chance to be known, accepted, and forgiven. When he was born, God was expressing His love to all humanity by sending us a gift that would free all people from their sin. When you and I experience His love, internalize that love, the natural outpouring of our hearts is to come and worship Him just like the Shepherds and the Magi. Recall the words of Matthew 2:2,
"Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him."
I invite you on a journey this Christmas to express your worship to God. During our message series we will examine how we worship God in different ways including lifting your hands, bringing your gifts, pouring our your heart, and bowing before Him.
After all, the joy and the wonder of Christmas is not really about the tree, the decorations, the presents, the family gatherings, the concerts, etc. Don’t get me wrong, those things are all very festive and enjoyable, but the true wonder of Christmas is the understanding that Jesus is Emmanuel-God with us. God provided us with hope so that mankind wouldn’t always feel so painfully alone. Jesus promised to never leave us or forsake us. He promised to be with us always no matter the circumstances. That reassurance is most definitely the message we all need to hear this Christmas!
Wishing You All A Wondrous Christmas!
Pastor Kevin, Michi & Family
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