Tis the Season

Greetings in the Name of Jesus,

Wednesday evening, I sat in on part of the choir rehearsal. It was outstanding. Tracy has put together a choir of almost 40 participants. As they sang the songs of Christmas, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. It is such an honor to be in partnership with the staff, leadership, and volunteers of this church. You are such a blessing! 

This Sunday at the 9:45 and 11:00 worship services, Stonebridge UMC will present its annual “Lessons and Carols of Christmas”. This is always a great worship service. I know you will want to be here to celebrate the sounds of the season surrounding our Lord’s birth. Please do all you can to invite your friends and neighbors. It will be a glorious worship experience. 

It is not unusual for friends and church members to groan about the stress of this season. I have even heard my own voice question this season, “How can we celebrate when there is so much to do?” Celebrate indeed... in the most stressful time of year? How do we celebrate? 

Christmas is the “celebration” of the birth of our Lord –God in the flesh. Let us not let the excesses of our culture pervert this season. Let us focus on others instead of self. Let us celebrate the gift of Jesus. Let us celebrate what God’s love in Christ has done and is doing. The season of celebration and joy has come. Let us celebrate with gratitude for Christ has come!

The world may be chaotic, but the loving and joyous way of the baby of Bethlehem will conquer all. So let us join with the angels in singing the heavenly chorus, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom God favors.” (Luke 2:14)

See you Sunday! Let’s make this the best Sunday ever!

Pastor John Allen

P.S. Thanks to your generosity, we were able to provide 71 winter coats and presents for 150 children at our partner school, Malvern Elementary. What an amazing way to celebrate the season!