Wow! Where has this year gone? It is already December and so many things have seemed to slip by quickly. The kids schedules are amazingly full and the Christmas shopping to do, the parties to plan, the house to clean and keep clean, I don’t know that I have time for much else… We seem to hear this lament more at this time of year than during the rest of the year but in all honesty we could hear these things all year long. We also see that this time of year seems to be for some a rather depressing time as well. Those who miss loved ones who are now in heaven, families who have various other struggles get down when it seems as though "everyone else" is celebrating and having a good time… At these times we need to remember that God has provided for us His Sabbath rest. During the Christmas season, and all year for that matter, it is important to remember and make time to take a break from the rushing about to be refreshed and renewed by the gifts and grace of God. It is important to take time to gather in our Lords house with angels and archangels and all the company of heaven as we receive from God His grace and blessing. It is important that as we face our struggles as individuals and as families that we realize the blessings God has laid out for us and humbly kneel before Him in prayer, praise and thanksgiving.

As we begin yet another Christmas season and church year let us do so with a renewed commitment to our Lord and Savior; let us do so with a renewed commitment to our congregation; let us do so with a renewed commitment to the family of Christ here in this place and build each other up in Him. We would do well also to plan to attend the extra services on Wednesday evenings during Advent. There will be services in Church on December 5^th and 12^th and in the Gymnasium on Dec. 19^th. The theme is: Jesus, Born For Us. The sermons and children’s service will carry the themes: 1) Jesus, Born to be the True King for us, 2) Jesus, Born to be God’s True Son, Israel, for us, and 3) Jesus, Born in weakness for us. We hope and pray God continues to fill you with His joy and peace not only during Advent and Christmas, but always.

In His Name

Pastor Jim Hennig

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