Expectation

When I was a kid, I remember the expectation building up to Christmas Day. Part of it was the presents and new toys I knew I’d receive. I also knew that our family would spend time together in a way that was different than we normally did. I’d be out of school and Dad would have some time off at home. My sister would be home from college. We would play games, and have special meals together. What are memories that you have of your childhood Christmases?

Now I realize that this season of Advent is all about expectation. We remember the waiting that God’s people were undergoing as they looked forward to God’s promised Savior. Have you heard the recent Christmas song called “Winter Snow” by Audrey Assad? It’s a beautiful message about the gentleness with which Jesus came. The chorus says:

You came like a winter snow.

Quiet and soft and slow

Falling from the sky in the night

To the earth below.

We also look forward to Christ’s promised return. When we see things happening around us that are not the way that God intends them to be, we remember that God has promised that Jesus is returning to rule over an eternal kingdom. Expectation is that hope that we have in God’s ability to make all things well.

The choir and youth choir will be presenting a Christmas cantata, “His Name is Jesus,” next Sunday during the worship service. Be sure to come out and invite your friends to this special event during Advent.

On Sunday, December 24th, we won’t be having Sunday School classes, and our worship service will be at 9am with a fellowship time following.

I’m praying for you, as always. I know for some of you there are struggles during this time. Struggles with health, jobs, relationships, or the experience of loss can make this time of year feel somewhat empty. I pray that in the difficult times, God’s presence will be even more real to you. His name will be called Immanuel, God with us.

God bless,

Brian