Dear Caldwell,
I loved the photo that Dave Bradley took of the Women’s Circle luncheon earlier this week. The Santa on the right is not nearly as large as he seems, but Dave found an angle that makes it appear that Santa is looking over the shoulders of the guests as they enjoyed a lovely meal and fellowship, patiently awaiting his big night.
With only a few days left before Christmas, it seems like Santa is looming over us all. But for those who seek to live the Christian life, these are the last days of Advent and our hearts and souls are still focused on expectation. These last days of Advent are followed by the even greater joy of Christmas and Emmanuel, God with us, the Christ.
In worship this Sunday we will take a look at how an ancient Judean king named Ahaz and Joseph, the husband of Mary, received word of Emmanuel amid the anbiguity of their own lives and times. Their stories have a lot to tell us today. (The scripture, if interested, is Isaiah 7:10-16 and Matthew 1:18-25.)
Almost as important :-), you are encouraged to graze lightly Saturday night and bring a BIG appetite to the Christmas Extravaganza Breakast here at 9:45 am Sunday. It’s one of the happiest events of the year – we expect to see you there. In the meantime, thanks to all who have organized and prepared for it, led by Gen. George Michie, commander of the kitchen. (I’ve just heard news reports there may be some snow and ice Saturday and Saturday night but that no accumulation on Sunday is forecast. If the weather becomes an issue, watch channels 9 and 36 for updates on Caldwell.)
In Christ,
John