Wednesday, December 21, 2005

Good Morning!

Note that we will not have class this coming Sunday (Christmas Sunday), due to a change in the time for church -- on Christmas Day, we will have one service at 10 AM.

Today's Scripture

The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light; on those who lived in a land of deep shadow a light has shone.  For the yoke that was weighing upon them, and the burden upon their shoulders, thou hast broken into pieces O God our Renewer.

Isaiah 9

Today's Note

Today is the first day of winter and the shortest day of the year, or, to put it another way, the longest night of the year.

I just read recently about churches who have a special service on this day, either what they call a "Blue Christmas" service or a "Longest Night" service.

It is a service that is different than traditional Christmas services -- it is more quiet, somber service, one focused on scripture, music, meditations that speak to the comfort that God can offer during dark times.  Candles are a big part of a Longest Night service, as they symbolize the ability of God to provide light during the darkness.

As we go forth the rest of the holiday season, even though it is a time of great joy, we need to remember those who are not able to connect with the joy of the season due to shadows in their life -- the loss of loved one, health issues, money issues, etc.  These people are the ones that need to hear the message of light and hope of the advent season, and how it can brighten their life and their outlook.

Today's prayer request:      Those who have lost loved ones this year.

We have had a number of people on our prayer list over the year due to the loss of a loved one - both people we knew and people we didn't know.  We need to pray for all of those families today as they approach Christmas with a sense of loss and sadness.

Today's class member prayer: 

Ron Ray

Have a great day.

Jay