It is getting to look A LOT like Christmas here, how about where you are? This will be our first white Christmas since moving from Illinois back to Alabama…now to ALASKA! The only thing missing is the crackling of the fire in the fireplace. We have a oil stove and it keeps the place pretty cozy (when I can get Christie to close the windows!) Would have to chop wood for wood stove and that could get a bit challenging with all the snow on the ground and temps below 0! AND IT IS SNOWING NOW!
Last weekend we helped with the library’s annual Shoppers Fair at the school. Several local folks setup tables and sold their homemade crafts and goodies. There was a very good turnout and the library made much needed funds for the coming year. Christie made taco soup to sell and it was a big hit. Santa even showed up to visit with the kids. Even some of the “older” folks tried to get their last minute requests in for Santa.
Monday night several folks from the church went out caroling in the community. We visited many homes and handed out cookies. It was a great time and was just like the caroling pictures you see on cards…snow all over the place, carolers bundled up and happy smiles on the faces of the people at the homes. We ended back at the church for hot chocolate and cookies!
Thursday night we will hold the church’s annual Christmas Eve Candlelight service. This service is a special service that is attended by many from the community. After the service refreshments will be served and we will enjoy a time of fellowship. Looking forward to our first Christmas in McGrath!
“but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! Luke 2:10-11 (NLT)
In the shadow of the cross sits the manger that held the Christ Child that first Christmas over 2,000 years ago. That night, the innkeeper missed it; the religious leaders, who were expecting a coming King, missed it; the crowds of Jews in Bethlehem for the census, and also expecting a coming King, missed it; only Mary and Joseph, and the shepherds welcomed the Christ Child that night. In the busyness of this Christmas week, find some time to “sit around the manger” and meditate in the events of that first Christmas, what happened the moment Christ was born…“The omnipotent in one instance made Himself breakable. He who had been spirit became pierceable. He who was larger than the universe became an embryo. And He who sustains the world with a word chose to be dependent upon the nourishment of a young girl. God in a fetus…Holiness sleeping in a womb…The Creator of life being created!” (Max Lucado) Don’t miss it!
Christie and I would like to wish you all a very Blessed Christmas! We appreciate all your support as we serve in McGrath, Alaska.
