THE PASTOR'S CORNER FOR DECEMBER, 2022

Reflections From Pastor Kim

The season of expectation is upon us!  It’s the “what” that we are expecting that may be the issue though.  We expect joy and songs and parties and gifts and yes, exhaustion.  How is it that the season of love, joy, peace and hope becomes the season of chaos?  We try, right?  We do all that we can to be prepared and plan in advance for guests, travel, family and friends that make the season bright.  When we get right down to it, we often find ourselves wrapped up in the secular expectations of the world, instead of the expectations that come with the sacredness of being wrapped up in the peace of connecting deeply with our Savior as we await the celebration of his birth.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”  John 14:27 NRSV

STEP BACK!  We have just spent a season working through characteristics of discipleship and thanks giving.  Hopefully we have not forgotten the depth of God’s love that we explored there in the justle and bustle of holidays.  Step back and take time.  Get out your calendar.  Right now!!  Schedule in time to spend with God, even if it’s five minutes each day.  Schedule in at least one longer period per week, where you have time to rest while you look and listen for God’s response to your prayers.
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The peace of Christ is like no other.  As He says these words He is ensuring the disciples that He is not leaving them alone, but instead is leaving them with an Advocate.  We know that Advocate to be the Holy Spirit.  Christ is with us in ways and at times we can’t comprehend.  He does not leave us in chaos, but instead calls us to experience his peace.  My prayer for you is that in this holiday season, you experience that peace.

Be blessed, be a blessing, and take someone with you on the journey!
Pastor Kim