Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. (Mark 13:31, ESV)
We’ll sing some carols, light some candles, tell the Christmas story and share the Lord’s Table together in this meaningful, annual celebration reminding us that as great as is the miracle of the Son of God being born in the world, the miracle of His birth in our hearts is the greatest gift of all. Why not make some time, bring your family and share with others of God’s people a wonderful few moments of remembrance and expectation?
Sunday Morning, Dec. 20: The roads have been plowed but still have snow and ice on them. Driveways are not yet plowed, nor is the church parking lot. Services are canceled today, but please come back on Christmas Eve at 6:00 p.m., and next Sunday for a double Christmas celebration with our children’s play! The church building may be closed, but God’s church (you!) remains open and working!
About 15 people gathered at the church on the evening of December 18 and went out Christmas caroling. Forecasts called for snow late in the evening, but we enjoyed singing for several seniors in their homes, and one in a nursing home (where other residents gathered in the hallway to listen). It’s hard to overestimate the joy that comes into the world when people care enough to make the effort to do even such a simple thing. May Christmas be in our hearts, and a song on our lips, throughout the year!
By late evening the snow had begun falling, and forecasts were upgraded to a blizzard for Saturday (today), possibly a record-breaking storm for the area with up to two feet by Sunday morning. As I write this, before 8 a.m., six or more inches is on the ground and the heaviest snowfall is only just getting started!
Below are announcements which include delaying our Christmas program by a week, in light of this severe weather forecast.
Scheduling notes:
The children’s play dress rehearsal scheduled for today, December 19, will move to next Sunday morning, December 27 at 9:00 a.m.
On schedule for Sunday, December 20 are the children’s Christmas play, the Christ’s Birthday Offering, and our monthly compassionate ministries food processional. In the likely event we are closed for snow that day, all of these will happen instead on Sunday, December 27.
Our Christmas Eve candlelight service will still take place on Thursday at 6:00 p.m.
Pastor Bob says: Stay safe, stay snug, and enjoy some “in” time with your families! God is good, all the time (even in the snow)!
Sometimes I’m tempted to ask God why he allows poverty, famine, and injustice in the world, but I’m afraid he’ll ask me the same question.
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
Note the “Verse of the Day” feature at the top of the main page. A new Bible verse every day. Come back each morning to check it!
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.
Notes for a sermon preached on October 11, 2009 at the Marbury Church of God
Hebrews 4:12-16: Jesus Understands!
God invites His people to Rest Hebrews 4:1-11
The Word of God: Powerful Hebrews 4:12
God knows your Heart Hebrews 4:13
Our High Priest Hebrews 4:14
Jesus Understands! Hebrews 4:15
A Bold Approach Hebrews 2:16
Boldly Approach!
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For the measure you give will be the measure you get back.
Each one Has a Role James 5:13
The Prayer of Faith James 5:14-16
Call for the Elders: this might be you!
Elijah’s Example: James 5:17-18 1 Kings 17:1-7 1 Kings 18:1-2, 41-45
The Greatest Miracle of Healing James 5:19-20
