good folks of next,

When I get to thinking about our Sunday morning gatherings in the fine month of December, I have a real desire re-engage Christmas as a theme. Last year we did very little in our Sunday services – this year we’d like to do more. A word I think about is ‘redeem’… to redeem this season as one of preparation for and expectancy of the move of God in our world. Interestingly enough, originally Advent (the four weeks before Christmas) was associated with very somber and reflective traditions (similar to those of Lent - the 40 day period leading to Easter) as people remembered the First Advent while acknowledging a Second Advent in the return of Christ as judge. Hallmark cheer is thin and frail up against the hope and longing of all the earth for the return of Christ and the resetting of all things right… So, for those who want some soul preparation, we will be engaging the question “What are we waiting for?” during the month of December. Speakers will be addressing this question from a variety of angles and perspectives… each week will stand alone in content but relate to our Advent/Christmas theme - a Sunday Stocking Stuffer so to speak.

It is good for us to continue to get to know the stories of those in our community. One way that helps to this end is to hear from someone on Sunday morning. Each week we’d like to hear someone from this crazy community tell of their experience around one of the following topics:

1. Christmas promises so much and yet the actual experience is often much different (less?) than expected… (the Christmas ideal and the competing reality)
2. Waiting is seldom appreciated. We tend to towards immediate gratification. Describe a waiting experience… How was your expectancy fulfilled?

We’ll probably do this in an interview format. Please email me (garrydrew@gmail.com) if you’d be interested in sharing your experience.

Thanks so much. I am excited to be a part of your community!
grace and peace,
Garry

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