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D ECEMB E R
FI R ST BA PTIST CHURCH / JEF F ERSON C ITY, MO
UPCOMING Perhaps you have a favorite movie version
My sermons this Advent are about
of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” There
banishing these thieves. But the effort will
are several out there. Or maybe you prefer
require spiritual discipline—slowing down,
to read the book aloud to family members.
paying attention and not being swept up in
The story resonates with us because there
culture’s shallow agenda. In other words,
are so many thieves out there, conspiring
we will need to intentionally make space
to rob us of the joy and transforming power
for some fresh encounters with the Eternal.
of this holy season.
I for one can’t wait for all the rich worship
Dec 9
experiences which await us, as we find
Children’s Program Presenting Our Gifts
Dec 2 Christmas Joy Musical Youth Dessert Theatre
Dec 7 Parents Night Out Christmas Workshop
You know the Christmas thieves: crowded
lasting nourishment in the Messiah of the
schedules, depleted bank accounts, too
Ages.
Dec 16
and entertaining friends and grief over
Thank you for all your gifts and Christmas
departed loved ones. But perhaps the
greetings. Janet and I wish you a Merry
Jim & Bettie Jo Hill Appreciation Reception Churchwide Caroling
biggest thief is the one that steals our
Christmas and a blessed New Year.
Dec 24
Grace,
Candlelight Lord’s Supper Service
much sugar, the pressures of hosting
hope, because it promises the holidays will fix everything in our lives, only to disappear bright and early on December 26.
Doyle