Post Christmas 2007--
This year at Evangelical Lutheran Church we celebrated the Good News of God's coming in Christ through eight worship services that touched about 2,300 souls.
But that's only a tiny part of the story. Followers of Jesus around the globe gathered as we did, and they too celebrated the nativity readings from Luke and Matthew and pondered the mystery disclosed in John.
How is it that this birthday from long ago launches a billion people in the mode of worship followed by a renewed spirit of joy and service?
I think it is only possible when we realize that the Savior who was born long ago is still ALIVE and very much present with us through the power of the Holy Spirit!
Christmas worship is not a rite or ritual. It is a celebration of a relationship we still know with the Messiah of God...and, regardless of where you're reading these words, you should know that you are precious in His eyes right now.
So, Christmas was good because Christ is good. 2008 holds promise because Christ will be with us each step along the journey, whatever life may bring.
In closing, a word of SINCERE thanks to the staff, congregation and guests for the generous outpouring of time, love, and offerings that enable this congregation to move forward with the kind of grace that touches those in need (all of us!).
God bless, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year soon!
Pastor Dave+