PASTOR'S PEN
"In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.' This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: 'A voice of one calling in the wilderness, Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'" Matthew 3:1-3
As we run around the stores (both physically and virtually), getting 'ready for the holidays' it's so easy to get sucked into the whirlwind of preparing for the parties, dinners and gift exchanges that are a part of this season. I admit, I can't resist a good buy either, or thinking about how to use all those beautiful decorations.
Every year, it might be easy to get pulled into all of this - and it's not a bad thing to be celebratory and participate in the season for giving! But every year, we also are given the chance of Advent - the time leading up to Christmas to actually slow down, to reflect, to prepare our hearts.
Most of us know that Christmas is more than just a secular holiday with lights, presents and parties - but how often do we truly observe Advent before celebrating Christmas? How often do we slow down, even stop, to reflect deeply about how Christ's coming makes a difference in our lives? How often do we heed the words of the prophets who tell us to 'Repent, and clear the way for the Lord'?
I don't know about you, but every year, I long to savor more and more of Advent, and work to lessen the 'holiday preparations' that keep me from really getting ready for Christmas…I admit that I'm not always successful, but I pray I'm on the right track...
How about you? Are you ready for Christmas?
Advent peaces and Christmas blessings,
Pastor Grace
CLERK'S REPORT
Everyone is invited to attend our regular session meetings. If you are interested in how the session, our governing body, discusses ministry at CUPC, please come and join us! You are also welcome to read the minutes, which are public documents. The minutes are available in the church office.
DEACON'S REPORT
God is Good! Thank you all for joining us for our annual Thanksgiving Dinner held on November 18. We are able to make a sizeable donation to the Red Cross to help the many affected by the devastating Hurricane Sandy. Our M.C. Gordie kept us greatly entertained the entire time, ending the evening on a high note! Thank you to everyone who lent a helping hand in preparing a wonderful meal.The Deacons will visit our homebound members in December. If there is anyone you would like us to visit, please let us know. And please join us on Sunday, December 23, for our Christmas worship service. The Deacons will host the coffee hour following the worship.
