Together We Sing!

December is just around the corner. And we have plans at King Road to kick off the Advent season with some great music.  The Pacific Mennonite Children's Choir will be joining us in both morning services on December 2.  And, in the evening, at 6:30 pm, we will have our second annual Together We Sing - Advent Edition.  Music and dessert - what could be better?

Okay, that first paragraph simply sounds like information, right? Yes, getting the information out there is important. It's why we announce this event in the paper, on our website, on our facebook page, on our blog. It's why we print posters and invitation leaflets.  But, my challenge to all of us is to go further.  Invite someone. Invite more than one someone. Offer them a ride. Encourage them to come. Look for them in the foyer. Sit with them. Help them find their way around our facilities.

Why? Because this is one event where we intentionally want not only to bless people, but to tell them what the Christmas message is all about.  So, will you join me in praying and inviting?  It would be great to have a packed house praising God together, for his honour and glory!

See you Sunday!

This is my story...and I'm sticking to it!

Stories. What is it about stories (in whatever medium) that grab our attention? I have a hunch we all love stories, whether we read them, watch them, or experience them. Two our our congregation's young adults shared the following quote (visit their blog here) which caught my attention: "Once the stories stop coming, I know something is wrong. God is always providing stories big or small." (Steve Klassen)

If this quote is true, then we've all got a story to share because God is at work.  Here are three short stories that I've experienced lately:

1. God isn't finished with us yet - I had a chance to serve at Tabor Home in their chapel service with 3 families from our congregation on Sunday. What a great opportunity to see children bless senior shut-ins.

2.  God answers prayer - I'll simply say that my family experience this in a remarkable way this week.

3.  We need each other - the best stories are shared stories.  Why? Because none of us wants to be alone. This week I experienced this through our care group and some other close friends.  Let's remember that we need each other.

So, how about you? What are your God-stories? Are you sharing them? Who is standing with you? Reflect on these questions and share your stories of how God is active around you!

Merry Christmas!?!

Since the stores are decorating for Christmas, and some people I know already have their tree up, it's not too early to post about Christmas, is it?  After all, it's less than 50 days until Christmas!  If you don't believe me, or need to know specifics, click here.

I have a question or two that I would like to have you help answer.  Don't worry, it's not specifically about decorating, cookie baking, card writing, gift wrapping, carol singing, eggnog drinking, or shopping spending. Why am I asking?  I'm working on an adult teaching series related to Christmas, and I don't simply want to approach it in the traditional way.

1. What are some Christmas traditions you could do WITHOUT?

2. What helps you feel ready to celebrate Christmas?

3. How might we celebrate Christmas in a way that impacts others around us in a positive way?

I'd love to hear from you on these questions.  Leave a comment.  Send me an email or facebook message.  Please help me think about how we might make Christmas meaningful in our culture.