Dear FPCLA,
Twenty-one days before Christmas. As a child, the mention of Christmas brings joy and excitement because of the gifts I’d be receiving from my families and godparents. Giving and receiving gifts became a habit. So, are you shopping for gifts this year? Are you excited of the possible gifts you will receive this year?
Christmas is also a time when people come together and celebrate. I am looking forward getting together with families and friends. The question becomes what do you (what do I) celebrate on Christmas? Why?
Finally, I want to ask you: what does Christmas mean to you?
Scripture: Philippians 1:3-11 The Message
3-6 Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God. Each exclamation is a trigger to prayer. I find myself praying for you with a glad heart. I am so pleased that you have continued on in this with us, believing and proclaiming God’s Message, from the day you heard it right up to the present. There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.
7-8 It’s not at all fanciful for me to think this way about you. My prayers and hopes have deep roots in reality. You have, after all, stuck with me all the way from the time I was thrown in jail, put on trial, and came out of it in one piece. All along you have experienced with me the most generous help from God. He knows how much I love and miss you these days. Sometimes I think I feel as strongly about you as Christ does!
9-11 So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover’s life, circumspect and exemplary, a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God.
Announcements:
- We are back to in person worship at 1:15pm and remote worship. There is no fellowship hour afterwards, but instead will head out for meal and drinks.
- If you or someone you know needs any immediate necessities like groceries, medications, books, or etc., then please fill-out our Mission Fund 2021 Form and send it to Pastor Sam.
- If you have the means, please give to FPCLA.
Blessings,
Pastor Eula
P.S.
California has confirmed two cases: one in San Francisco and one in Los Angeles, of Omicron variant of the coronavirus. Scientists are saying that Omicron variant has the potential to spread faster and infect more people than the Delta variant. They are also saying that the Omicron variant might be less severe than the Delta variant. Don’t panic. Calm down. Breathe.
Get vaccinated. Wear your face mask regardless of your vaccination status. Wash your hands.
