Christmastide

“We cultivate love when we allow our most vulnerable and powerful selves to be deeply seen and known, and when we honor the spiritual connection that grows from that offering with trust, respect, kindness and affection."

Brene’ Brown The Gift of Imperfection

 As the High and Holy seasons of Hanukah and Christmas are upon us, we are reminded anew of God’s continued work on behalf of humanity. The Light of God still shines even though darkness attempts to overtake it and God comes to us as Immanuel, God with us. There is no greater assurance that we need in the midst of troubling moments than the prophetic pronouncement, God is with us. That concept is quite interesting. We often have the proclivity to think of God as “above us.”  But I love that fact that the God who was once above us come to tabernacle and domicile with us. God is with us through it all.

The birth of Jesus under the most unlikely of circumstances teaches us that we too can be reborn, restored, and rejuvenated anywhere, anyplace, and anytime. Wherever we find ourselves, whatever struggles we have to encounter, God is with us and “Great Expectations” and new possibilities still exist.

While this season is earmarked every year for expressions of joy, peace, and love, some of us have to encounter life at its worst during this moment. We should always take the commandant of Jesus of Nazareth seriously when he proclaimed, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” This declaration should move us to give the gifts of prayers, love, joy, peace, and hope to those who need it the most. The ethos of caring and reaching out to each other in the time of great difficulty is essential to the spirit of Christmastide.

Finally, on behalf of Brandi and Camille, we count it a privilege and a joy to share in another Christmas fellowship with all of you. We are truly thankful for each of you, for each of you being a blessing to us with your time talent, and treasure, and allowing us to be a part of your lives. God is at work in the life of our church and our community and we are to always be in perpetual pursuit of God wherever God is. Just like the Christmas narratives in the Gospels, God shows up where we least expect it and when we least expect it. Out task is to have “Great Expectations” and always be ready to identify and connect with God. It’s an adventure we’re glad to share with you all.

 

With Great Expectations,

Brandi, Camille, and Pastor Grove

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