Weekly Newsletter December 22

Imagine one small gift left untouched under the tree. 

Imagine that gift, wrapped raggedly with golden paper because the giver was too nervous to do it carefully. The small box has all the signs of an engagement ring. A young couple sits in front of the fire gazing blindly into each other's glistening eyes. (You've heard someone say, "Love is blind!" haven't you?)

Finally, the young man grabs the gift with excitement, bends down on one knee with confidence and joy. He declares his love for her and asks, "Will you marry me?" Now, I don't have room in this message for all the drama that led up to this "Hallmark" moment, so we'll just finish it with a "Yes!" And then a squeal. And a foot-popping kiss.

If that gift is never opened and lived out, neither he nor she will experience the love it represents. That's Christmas! The present of God's love must be received, unwrapped, and lived. 

God is with us through the person of Jesus, God's son. Jesus came so that we all may live in peaceful, friendship with God. God's gift of forgiveness brings new life forever. We need that forgiveness because we all have failed to live the life God created us to live. Jesus came to restore us to God. We have peace. 

   Be near me Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay
   close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
   Bless all the dear children in thy tender care,
   and fit us for heaven to live with thee there. 
   (Away in the Manger)Join us to worship Jesus this Christmas. 

Bear Campus
Saturday 6PM
Sunday 9 & 11AM

Elsmere Campus
Sunday 9AM and 7PM

Roger Frederick
Lead Pastor

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