Love- A Savior Is Born

December Issue

Last month we learned the power of thankfulness. We went straight to the source to see what God’s Word says about the subject of thankfulness. Next, from healings to jail breaks, we discovered how gratitude taps into the power of God to release the miraculous here on the earth. We even learned the power of thanksgiving to make the impossible, possible.

This month we are on a journey to Bethlehem exploring God’s amazing rescue plan for humanity. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but will have eternal life.” God knew that we were going to mess up, and that we were going to need a Savior to save us.

The story of Jesus begins with the birth of a special man named John who brings a message of repentance to prepare the way for the Messiah. Then we meet a young woman named Mary who was chosen by God to be Jesus’ mother. Her heart is thrilled, but will her fiancé Joseph understand?

Next, we’ll journey with Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem. We’ll watch the beautiful prophecy of Jesus birth unfold and learn why our Savior was born in a stable and meet the shepherds who were first to hear the exciting news.

Finally, we will meet some travelers from the East who saw God’s special star signaling Messiah’s birth. In their excitement, they traveled all the way to Israel just to meet Him and bring Him gifts.

Before the foundation of the world, God had a plan to rescue His people. How amazing is our Father’s love that He would send His Son to be our Savior. This month we will celebrate and honor the baby born to save us!

“For unto us a child is born. unto us a son is given… and he shall be called Wonderful…” Isaiah 9:6

He Has a Plan

During the chaotic Christmas season, it is easy to lose sight of the truth that there is a Master Plan that we all fit beautifully into. We weren’t born for chaos; we were born for purpose, and those purposes are good. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Even Jesus had to look beyond His circumstances and trust His Father’s Plan. He wasn’t offended at being born in a manger or even at being crucified. Out of love, Christ humbled Himself and carried out the Father’s Master Plan for mankind because He had the inside scoop and was confident of the outcome, “…for the joy set before Him, He endured the cross…”.

As you move through this season, with its mixed emotions and hectic pace, take courage that there is purpose in the Master Plan. “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the c
called according to his purpose (His Plan!).” His Plan is beautiful. His Plan is good, and most importantly, His Plan is love in action.

Submitted by:
Susan Easom and Teresa Barker

‘Tis the season!

Sunday December 10th at 5pm is our church Christmas dinner. Our very own Bryan and Heather Arnold are catering a traditional Christmas feast. Be sure to turn in your RSVP by December 3rd to join in this fun event.

Tuesday, December 12th at 7pm is our Rosh Chodesh service. This is a time where we seek the Lord for the month ahead. There is no childcare provided for this service. However, children are welcome and encouraged to not only come, but participate as we all practice hearing from God and partnering with His plans for First Christian.

Sunday, December 24th the children will be having a Christmas party downstairs during the regular 10:30 service time. We will be singing worship songs, doing a fun craft, and enjoying a yummy holiday treat.

Coming Soon… Our Music and Movement class will be kicking off again sometime in the early part of the new year. They will be learning choreography to the song “Tear Off the Roof” by Brandon Lake. More details will be available in the next few weeks, so stay tuned!