"The Wonder of Christmas"

I've heard a song on the radio the last few weeks that really got me thinking about Christmas and stuff. Funny thing is, it's not really even a "Christmas" song...you know like, "Deck the Halls," or "Sleighbells," or any of those. It's just a very thought provoking, good 'ol contemporary 'pop' song. But it has a great, great message.

The heart of it says (talking about God): You opened up my eyes to wonder/What a vision/What a wonder you are. Yesterday, after running an errand, I was getting out of my truck and it just happened to be playing, again, on the radio station I was listening to. So, I just sat there, and let it sink in--looking at the blue December sky, the leaveless winter trees, and the high thin clouds. And it hit me again: we take for granted much of God's wonder.

And at Christmas time, there's a lot of wonder that's lost in the hustle, bustle and busy-ness. Our home is frenetic this week preparing for a three-night performance of The Prairie Nutcracker, but after about the middle of the month, we'll down-shift and enjoy a purposefully bare schedule to enjoy a family Christmas--and again embrace the wonder of that priceless gift.

At church, I'm really excited about an upcoming two week series, The Wonder of Christmas. Check out this short trailer we've put together to go with our series. By the way...guess what music goes with the trailer? The Wonder song. Yeah, I know...I'm predictable!

Our "Beautiful" Church Family

What a terrific weekend! The atmosphere at the close of the morning service was sweeeeeeeeeeeet! I felt like that was a real possibility while I was praying and preparing, but seeing it take place for real made it all the more sweeter! Something powerful just took over as I sat and watched that closing video there in the service! I was overwhelmed with deep gratitude, as we looked at all the slides of friends, family and co-laborers in the Lord. What a tremendous move of the Spirit.

This last week, I was talking to someone about my after service protocol--lingering around, praying with people, etc., etc. I told them that the real ministry takes place after the service. Many times what happens after a service is more profound than anything we do during a service. This individual shared a valued comment. They said, "That's really a neat thing. I like how you are approachable after a service. A lot of pastors don't do that." Wow! As I thought about it more, I thought, "Man, that's where most of the real ministry takes place."

Imagine if we could multiply that effort--have a handful, or a few dozen people lingering after a service to pray with individuals, shake hands, and just minister to them. Do you think people would come back to a church like that--a church that genuinely loves God, loves people and is looking for practical ways to serve others? I think so. I think people could really get into a place where we really, truly are authentic, compassionate, and caring.

Check out the video, if you haven't already. If you have, check it out again, and say a prayer for our beautiful church family at First Assembly!