Christmas is nearly upon us. In the midst of all the Christmas festivities we want to bring our focus on the Birth of our Savior! Let's make sure that we exalt Him above all else. Share the Christmas story this Christmas eve to your family to reflect on the precious gift of life God gave. Thank you Lord God for Jesus Christ!


THE WEEK BEFORE CHRISTMAS 
by Pastors Michael & Ginny Gulotta
Tis the week before Christmas, and all through the town,
People are scurrying all around.
Decorations and ornaments were all hung,
With excitement encircling all of the young.

Presents were bought and wrapped real pretty,
Being delivered from city to city.
There’s festivities and feasting all around,
Caroling and joyful celebrations resound.

Yet amidst all this commotion,
There’s still a strong notion,
That Christmas is for Christ,
And not all the hype.

The birth of a baby, the Savior, A King,
 Is the first and foremost reason we sing.
 It’s time to celebrate and rejoice
Giving reason for Christmas a spiritual voice.

So when you’re gazing upon all the seasonal lights
with wonder, amazement and marvelous delight,
Remember to ponder, review and reflect,
On Jesus the Messiah, God’s present exact. 

Is. 9:6 "For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

It's December!  Looking at the calendar, there are so many things scheduled, I'm challenged to get them all done. It's easy to overbook events, trying to fit them all in. And in the midst of these functions, there's the daily work load, as well as getting prepared for Christmas day. Stress comes easy if we're not watchful. The key: don't mentally assess it all....write things down and check off your list.

There are web sights, television programs, and books explaining how to have a calm and stress free holiday. The writers make it all seem effortless. However, it's often easier said than done. Getting caught up in juggling all the festivities can be exhausting, especially for a large family.

Phil. 4:6-7 says, "Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God’s peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus."

Worry is prolonged fear Fear is the opposite of faith. So when we are worrying about anything, we are out of faith!  Faith, regardless of the situation, is petitioning God through prayer giving thanks to Him for peace and provision. Taking our care and casting it over to Him. (1 Pet. 5:7) Believing that He is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think. (Eph. 3:20) Faith is knowing that you know, that you know, everything is going to work out for the good, because you believe when you ask according to His will, He hears you and, grants you your petitions. (1 John 5:14-15) 

You may not be able to slow down the season, or even keep from overbooking. But you can trust God through it, and believe that all these things will work out. Just breathe, don't fret, know that through Christ all things are possible. And what doesn't get done, wasn't important anyway. As you do what Phil. 4:6 says, you can rest assured, Phil. 4:7, God's peace, will cover you. Have a delightful Merry Christmas!