Christmas is a favorite time of the year for me. The tenderness of Christ as a child. The excitement and generosity of my children. The buzz of decorating the tree and singing together many December evenings. The music... Ahhh.
Preaching around Christmas can be a challenge. The story is familiar. It should be shared, taught, I know. But most everyone coming knows the cast of characters, place names, etc. So... being 'fresh' in presenting the Word is a challenge. And this year I really LIKE the challenge. God has graced me with a gorgeous theme and simple title. "Not My Will." Most bible-belters know the main 'not my will' was when Jesus was praying right before His arrest. But that was not the 'first' occurrence, nor, I would argue, the most important one. Not failing to value that decision, but noticing the ones that preceded it as well.
The Sundays of Dec 12 and 19, we'll explore the 'not my will' moments in Christ's earthly parents. And on Christmas Eve, we'll look at the 'first' 'not my will' moment of Jesus Christ.
Be glad to have you with us in worship if you can.
Man! Wish I could be there. . . you'll have to send me a link to audio or video if you have it. :) You do have me thinking though - "what was the first not my will moment"
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