Dear Messiah congregation,
Just a few things to share with you.

1. This Sunday
2. New Chancel Choir Director
3. Prayer Calls

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Dear Messiah Congregation,
The words of a hymn came to mind this morning: “In the snow and cold of winter, there’s a spring that waits to be, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.” We’ve lived here enough years that we know spring will come eventually, but these days can feel onerous. Some are able to escape to a warmer climate, others settle for a sunny day and sit by the window to feel the warmth. I’ve found even that can improve my attitude! The author of the hymn is inviting us to hang on to the hope of spring, the promise of life. Remember Jesus’ words: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10)

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Dear Messiah congregation,
I want to be sure you know about a few things that are happening.

1. This Sunday
2. New church staff hired
3. Sending forth our missioners
4. Ministry celebration and chili

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Dear Messiah Congregation,
I’ve listened to the public conversation this past week in the aftermath of the Tucson shootings. If we are open and available to God, there is always something of good that can come from even the most tragic of circumstances. I wonder if that’s what I have been hearing. Could we be lead to more civility in our public conversations, not only in politics but in all of our interactions? The media has also shown the power of prayer and faith in a time of need – and how people can come together to support each other. All of this in no way minimizes the tragedy and the loss of life, but this morning I turned to the words of Paul in Romans 8:28. We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. When we are open and available to God, we can see how God works for good even when what has happened is not.

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Dear Messiah Congregation,
We are hours away from a new year. I hope you have a safe and blessed holiday. I want to share a few things with you in this email.

Thank you
Christmas Eve was another awesome worship experience. Many people gave of their time and ability to serve as ushers, greeters, singers, and actors in the nativity story. Thank you to all who served and all who participated. Our attendance increased by 10% over the previous year. There was a great spirit in this place and many people shared with me how their hearts were touched by the worship and a new realization of the depth of what God is doing through Christmas.

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Dear Messiah congregation,

It is almost here. I am putting the finishing touches on my Christmas Eve message. I listened in on the choir rehearsals this week. They sounded ready. The candles have been placed by the door. The bulletins printed. The building is nearly ready. Are you ready? In the midst of beautifully wrapped presents, gatherings of friends and family, and delicious food, we want to share a moment of celebration with you. A moment that proclaims this is not just another Christmas. Just as the angels announced two thousand years ago, we will hear their Good News tomorrow: in Bethlehem, a Savior is born and he shall be named Jesus. This one life will once again change the world and change us as we stand in the presence of His glorious light.

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Dear Messiah Congregation,

On the Friday after Thanksgiving, our daughter, Bethany, took us to Santa Monica. It is a beautiful community, and we spent the day walking and biking along the Pacific Ocean. That day, we encountered many people who are homeless. The homeless were visible in a way that homelessness is not so visible here in Plymouth. There in Santa Monica persons were sleeping on the beach and along sidewalks. I have learned that there are homeless persons in Plymouth – just not so visible. They may be sleeping in their car or on the floor of a friend or relative who has given them a place to spend the night. Last week, when the temperature dropped below zero, I wondered who might be without housing and was forced to spend the night in their car. And then I wondered what I would do if I lost the ability to keep our home. I hope one of you might open your home to us at least for a night.

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Dear Messiah congregation,
I have been reflecting on the words of Isaiah 9:2. The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. These words will form the basis for a message that I will offer tomorrow at a service of remembrance in our community.

Among the things I look forward to in this season are the lights. Our nights are getting longer and even the days seem overcast. Many experience life in this way. Through no fault of their own, darkness rules their attitude, mood, and waking moments. A single light can transform the darkness. This is the season when Christians come together to remember and to celebrate the Light of the World that has the power to transform everyone. Last Sunday, I wrote in my journal: “Where do I need light?” The answer gives me reason to look forward to Christ’s coming. These next weeks are my opportunity to prepare for what God in Jesus Christ can still accomplish.

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Dear Messiah Congregation,

I am sending this week’s eNote a little early to offer my personal Thanksgiving greeting to each of you. I am in flight to spend Thanksgiving with our daughter, Bethany, in Los Angeles. Although our daughter, Lauren will not be with us, it is quite a blessing for Amanda and me to be able to spend a few days with one of our children.

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Dear Messiah Congregation,

As I write this note, the United Methodist Women are busy setting up for what will be an awesome opportunity tomorrow (Saturday). Many women and men have been at work creating beautiful handmade items and homemade baked goods. I happen to live with someone who has been creating jewelry for this event. And if you are like me, you will run to “cookies by the pound” – some temptations are more than I can bear! The contributions from this Treat Boutique will support mission projects. I think it is interesting to see what others from our church family have been making. I hope you will too.

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