The Sunday before Christmas is always exciting. It's the Sunday that includes many guests and even some people you haven't seen since Easter. (l0l) Our service started with 3 children taking the spiritual step of baptism. Two of those were saved as a result of Judgement House and one was saved during family devotions. Pastor David had the privilege of baptizing his daughter, Holly, and that was a special moment.
We were able to video tape the testimony of a lady whose family was truly blessed by our "Home for Christmas" service in 2007. We showed this in hopes that people would see the tremendous impact they are having by reaching out to grieving families. This dear lady said that "that service changed her life."
We received our Christmas offering, which our Deacons selected to give away to our missionary partners. The money will be divided among our missionaries as a reminder of our support and God's provision at this special time of year. I'm hearing of missionaries struggling because of the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar, so I encourage you to be faithful in your missions giving.
Today's message focused on the different "Views of Christmas" and looked at how Christmas started and what it's become. We looked that way the angels, Mary, Joseph, the Shepherds, the Wise men, and Herod looked at Christmas. I asked the question, "How do you look at Christmas?" and would encourage you to seriously consider whether you give more to others or to Jesus, the One Whose birthday we celebrate.
In lieu of an evening service, we hosted Christmas parties for our children, teens, and adults. My wife and I invited the entire church to our house for an open house drop-in. There was a great crowd and it allowed us to say "thank you" for allowing us the privilege of serving as the pastor of EBC. Some thought we were crazy (and we were wondering), but it really turned out that we were extremely blessed!
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