Midweek Message December 13, 2023

Seasonal Highs and Lows

 Advent is halfway through!
                        Advent is halfway through. :-(
The breathtaking sunrise this morning.
                        The longest night of the year is yet to come.
Carols we only sing in this season.
                        Lyrics with terrible theology or harmful sentiment.
The cozy feeling of curling up with a loved one and furry family.
                        Knowing this is a time of deep depression for many.
Holiday Joy, beautiful concerts, Neal Allen & Anne Lamott, and many other amazing events being held in our building’s spaces.
                        The stress that people feel trying to “do it all.”
Working with an incredible team of staff and volunteers.
                        War and violence in the U.S. and elsewhere, reminding us God’s Shalom is not yet fully manifest.
Emmanuel—God-with-Us—my favorite name for Jesus.

Ministry Highlight

This time of year many of you are trying to fit in everything you can—family, play, food,

rest, work, school, volunteering… Nobody can do it all, so may you have grace for yourselves and others! It’s also a good time to remind ourselves of the hours our part-time staff are paid as they try to prepare for all that is happening in our church life.

Organist (Judy) = 4 hours/week

Church School Coordinator (Josh) = 5-8 hours/week

Worship Media Coordinator (Georgia) = 5-10 hours/week

Accountant (vacant) = 14 hours/week

Minister of Music (Lucy) = 17 hours/week

Thanks be to God for the gifts they share with us as they’re able. May we all find time to reflect on the spiritual gifts of this season, seeking out moments of Advent Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love.