Dear People of Providence,
This time of the year is a wonderful time to reflect upon our many blessings. Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas are special times for families to gather every year. For Thanksgiving, we give thanks to God for the freedoms we enjoy in this country. We have the freedom to worship wherever we want without persecution. We have the freedom to study the Bible without persecution. These freedoms are not granted to many throughout the world.
As Disciples of Jesus, we are blessed in so many other ways. At our baptism, Jesus adopts us as his beloved child of God. From these holy waters, we live in confidence that nothing can separate us from God's love. When we worship and partake in the Holy Supper, we know that we are freed and forgiven to live as God's holy people. As our joyful response to this grace, we love and serve others, as Christ has first loved us.
During Advent, we will prepare our hearts for celebrating the Nativity of Jesus Christ. Because of his holy blood, shed for you and for me, we live each day in the New Creation of Christ. As you gather with your family and those you love during the holidays, may you ponder and realize the true meaning and mysteries of this holy season. And may the love of Christ always shine through your hearts, so that others will see the Good News of Jesus, reflecting through you.
Serving with You in Christ,
Pastor Todd +