We had good fun Sunday evening giving out hot chocolate, marshmallows, and candy canes to people at the church before the Hunterdon Holiday Parade! The Confirmation Class and friends showed up in force to help the Fellowship Committee set up and help the church look welcoming as people began to line up for the parade. Many neighbors came through the line to receive our hospitality of hot cocoa with an invitation to join us online for Christmas Eve services.
One moment of joy came later in the day as the parade was about to begin a little boy about 4 years old came up to the table and took a handful of candy canes from the table (there were plenty left over) and proud of his plunder he jumped up and down and exclaimed with big eyes, “YES! Look how many I got!”
I wonder, what will make you shout with joy at God’s abundance in this season?
What is it that your heart is longing for this Christmas?
Is it sweet treats and gifts galore?
Or is it healing for someone you love,
Sweet reunion with friends and loved ones you have not seen in far too long,
And an end to the twists and turns on the pandemic roller coaster?
Is it for all of God’s children to be housed, fed, safe, and well,
For our church to continue to thrive with vibrant ministry,
And hope for those whose hearts are broken and despairing?
Or to simply have assurance that God is present with you and that God cares for your well-being.
I invite you to come with an open heart to worship this Sunday – either in person or online. As you hear the choir and readers tell of the Road to Bethlehem, may the Spirit of Christmas be born in a new way in you in 2021!
And may God bless us as we prepare our hearts for the great gift that is coming!
Advent blessings,
Rev. Amy