Yes, I know that it is not even Halloween yet. Tomorrow is the "Trick or Treat" day, but the fact is I have already seen some signs of Christmas coming. While it seems so early to even think about Christmas there are many reasons we have to do so. Here are some of the reasons why.
1) We have to make plans on the calendar at the church for all the Christmas events.
2) The Choir is already practicing the Christmas musical.
3) The Children are starting to rehearsh their Christmas Play.
4) Of course the stores are starting to advertise and have their Christmas decorations already out.
But it really does seem too early doesn't it. But the big issue about the first signs of Christmas is starting to plan when the family events are going to take place. This is a big issue for many families once the children grow up and move away from home and get married. Because husband and wife are going to be together and they cannot be in two places at one time deciding where and when Christmas family events are going to happen becomes a big issue. I have seen many hurt feelings over this issue and I find it very sad that the celebration of the Lord's birth would cause anyone to get upset at anyone else just because they cannot be at their event. I hope your Christmas planning and giving is well planned this year which does mean that you have to start now.
Missions emphasis is a tradition in the Baptist Church. we always emphasize Giving to Lottie Moon. We have not set a goal yet at Piney Grove but I know we will soon. But i have booked a speaker for the kick off of the "giving season." I have asked my dear missionary friend Henry Couser who is the Haiti Coordinator for Operation Mobilization to speak to Piney Grove on November the 24th in the evening service. OM is one of the leading partners with Southern Baptist around the world.
Henry will be leaving a week after he is with us to rescue children in the Far East from the sex trade there. This is something we talked about at lunch yesterday and has touched my heart as I think about it. Just realize that there are children right now in Far East who are enslaved by those who require unspeakable acts of them many times a day. Henry and a team will be there in a few weeks to free these children and place them in a safe house. Jesus came to free us from sin. What a gift. Giving at Christmas is what it is all about. Plan now to come and hear Henry on the 24th of November. One month before Christmas you can give a gift that means a new life for a child.
The first signs of Christmas is really found in your heart as you realize what Jesus Christ coming for us is really all about.
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