December 19, 2024

Dear Central Church,

Mary was an ordinary girl, probably 14 or 15 years old when an angel announced to her that she was to have a baby. Mary knew from the angel’s announcement that this baby would be the Savior of the World, but those around her would not have known nor would they have believed her if she were to tell them what the angel said. 

Joseph was an ordinary guy, probably 18 or 19 years old when an angel made a similar announcement. He obeyed and kept his engagement to Mary, making the journey to Bethlehem that we know so well today. 

I wonder, however, if we had lived back then, would we notice them or give them a second thought? Imagine passing this young and unremarkable couple on the way to Bethlehem. There was nothing special about them. Imagine having a guest room next to the stable where they were forced to lodge. Would you have complained about having your sleep disturbed by a crying infant? 

As we prepare for this 4th Sunday of Advent, we enter into this world of Christ’s first coming in hopes that we do not miss his second coming. According to Matthew 25, the most important way we prepare for Christ’s return is being mindful of those in need around us. Jesus said, “When you have done it to the least of these, you have done it unto me.” (Matthew 25:40) 

We have several ministries that are mindful of the needs in our community, but one we want to highlight at our Christmas Eve service is our Food Pantry. Here’s a brief snapshot of what our pantry is doing to bless our community: 

      - Provide groceries for more than 100 families a month 
      - Supply food for students in need at Rising Star Elementary 
      - Extend hospitality to all, including first generation immigrant families and those that speak English as a second language  

As the need in our community has increased, we have a need for increased funding for this ministry. We’re going to receive an offering at our Christmas Eve service to get us started for the New Year, and I believe God is going to continue to provide for this ministry in 2025. 

As you make plans for Christmas Eve, we have 2 services at 4 and 6pm. We’ll enjoy a time of Christmas cookies and fellowship in between services. Invite a friend and let’s gather to celebrate, “Good news of great joy, that shall be for all people!”

Until He’s Finished,
Pastor Mark