What a great job it is to be a pastor during the Christmas Season.  I realize that whole thing about preaching four services on Christmas Eve doesn’t look like it would be a lot of fun… but trust me it is a kick.  I love to see the sanctuary packed with people who come to hear the Good News of Christ’s birth proclaimed.

But there is more.  I get to witness so much of the sharing that goes on many of you don’t get to see because it happens behind the scenes.  I can walk into the sanctuary and see nearly a dozen people wrapping presents for nearly 30 families or look out my office window and watch parents come into the church empty-handed and leave with a trunk full of presents and food and a smile on their faces.  I got to go this year with Gwyn Vullmer and Joyce Kleinschmidt to deliver baby quilts to the Evergreen High School students who were either raising babies or were expecting them shortly.  I cannot describe the joy they felt or the gratitude they expressed for the women of our church taking the time and love to make them such a special gift.

So many of you took a turn at ringing bells for the Salvation Army again this year and we raised more than $3,000!  The Youth Group went caroling to five of our senior church members and brought them the gift of music but also cookies to share!  I have listened in on secret gifts being exchanged and have helped pass white envelopes of blessing to people in need.  Many of you told me that you really listened to the sermon three weeks ago where I said, “This is not your birthday but Jesus’” and you have shared the ways in which you have cut back in your spending for yourselves and have directed it to others.  Thank you for listening!

It is a season of great blessing and the good news is that is not over!  We have the best to come.  I know you may be thinking about all the gifts you still have to get or wrap but come on Saturday evening and listen to the story of “God’s Ultimate Gift.”  Invite a friend.  This is a great time to reach out.

Pastor David