Christmas 2009
Known for its merriment and festivities, December is a month that keeps most everyone on their toes. Whether the calendar is booked with office parties, gatherings with friends, or expected visits from family—we all hope for that bit of quiet to sit and reflect on God’s gift to the world, a baby whose name was delivered by angels . . . Jesus.
Early in the month, ladies from the Friday morning Bible study enjoyed a morning of fellowship dressing the church for Christmas. Two trees sparkling with ornaments and draped with ribbons seemed to fill the space with a little extra touch of beauty. Lanterns lit the way to front of the church and settled in the midst of wreaths on top of every table. Of course, the tables aren’t always up—that was just for the annual women’s community Christmas breakfast.
This year again proved to be that moment of quiet and reflection before the bustle of the season really began. Speaker, Jessica Dunker, co-founder of Ruth Harbor Ministries in Des Moines, challenged women to listen to God’s leading in their lives and encouraged ladies to allow God’s strength to work through them to get the job done. Dunker’s inspirational message and testimony continued as ladies enjoyed a delicious breakfast together. Music celebrating Jesus and the Christmas season added the finishing touch to a morning of fellowship, fun, and drawing near to Christ.
Christmas Eve soon arrived. With the church already dressed for company, every seat found a friend as the sanctuary filled with people from the community and their families. As a row of musicians presented their praise to God, the congregation rejoiced in the birth of the Savior. Passages from Scripture retold the most astounding birth story ever recorded—and the enormity of it all touched hearts once again.
As the evening of celebration dwindled to a close (and as a blizzard raged outdoors), the lights dimmed. From the lanterns lit on the steps of the stage, a little flicker of flame passed from candle to candle, down the aisles, and to the furthest rows in the church. Reminiscent of God’s Word filling the world with light, the little candles lit the church with a warm glow as the final song of the evening filled the room. What a blessing to worship our God together on the celebrated eve of His birth!