Brothers and Sisters,

As I have been reflecting on this past Sunday’s message, I cannot help but rejoice at the goodness of God in his strategic plan to redeem us.  The Old Testament seems like a collection of random events with little purpose.  But as we saw Sunday, the unusual series of events in the OT are most fortunate for us.  God in his infinite wisdom was preparing for Christmas all along.  It truly would not exist without all the sequence of movements from Genesis to Malachi; that are most fully realized in the birth of a baby (Is 7:14 // Matt 1:20-23).  God was indeed planning, preparing, orchestrating, and bringing about salvation, but in the most unusual way—God incarnate (Matt 1:18)!  God became flesh!  Jesus, in his humanity, is able to sympathize to our needs in every way but yet be without sin.  In his divinity, Jesus is a worthy sacrifice for our sins.  Only the God-man could withstand sin’s temptation and overcome death (Heb 2:14-18)!

Brothers and Sisters, as you spend many hours getting ready for Christmas might you remember God has already prepared and provided for your deepest need (2 Cor 5:21).  Rejoice in the God-man!

 

Budget

Thank you to all the members who participated in voting for the new budget for the upcoming year.  The budget for 2017 was passed with an overwhelming 95%!  We look forward to the many partnerships we will enjoy in 2017 as we glorify God through lives changed by the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Christmas Schedule

Just by way of reminder there will be no Christmas Day gathering on Sunday December 25th.  Rather we will have a Christmas Eve gathering on Saturday December 24th at 6pm.  This is a very strategic time to invite family, friends, and co-workers to attend with you as a way to engage them spiritually.  This gathering time will look at Christ as our intermediary—the one who creates peace between us and God. Childcare will be provided for all ages.

Giving

Though the office will be closed December 26th – 30th, it will be opened December 29th from 9am-12pm for end of year giving.

Christmas Stinks

It’s not all presents, food, laughter, and holiday cheer: in fact, I know people who feel that Christmas is the most awful time of the year.  For some, Christmas stinks…(read more)

Grace be with you,

Bryan Jerry