Where has the year gone? It seems like we blinked and its already December. It doesn't help
that some of my neighbors started hanging lights and yard ornaments the day after Halloween.
The early approach of Christmas festivities seems to come sooner every year. Never mind
that we are in the season of Advent. Most people don't really think about Advent. They want
to get to the feeling that Christmas gives us quickly. But Advent is a season of waiting and
anticipation. The build-up to Christmas is gradual as we journey with the scriptures' anticipa-
tion of God's action, arriving at an unexpected place. A small, unlikely family and the birth of a
child with so much promise and hope. A gift that is still a promise of what God will do, real-
ized in the life of one Child.
We are often in such a hurry to get to the main event that we forget that good things really
do come to those who are patient. What do we seek in the birth of the Christ child? Not toys
and trinkets, not tinsel and lights, but the promises of God for peace and goodwill to all God's
friends on earth below. May you grow this year to anticipate the life of Christ as a Gift that
reveals itself all year long, as long as you keep opening yourself to the Grace of God.
Bless you all and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
There are a few opportunities to gather this season outside our regular worship and events.
Taylorsville choir will be performing its cantata service on December 21st, and we hope to
take it and share it with Zion this year as well. May the ministry of music bless both our
churches this year. Another opportunity to invite others is the Christmas Open House on
Sunday, December 14th from 1:00-3:00PM.
The Hub has two events happening soon at St. Paul UMC, 200 Main St, New Windsor.
December 7th, 3:00PM Hub Choir performance
Members of the local hub churches have been rehearsing a Christmas cantata. Come out to
hear some beautiful Christmas music in a worshipful space. Please support the work of so
many talented people, some from our churches.
December 14th, 3:00PM Blue Christmas
A blue Christmas service is a service for anyone who experiences seasonal depression or
grief after the loss of a loved one. The holidays can be challenging for anyone, but when we
experience loss, it can be particularly challenging. Please consider attending if you feel those
same challenges, or if not, would like to help with a reading or be a supportive presence. Let
Pastor Josh know if you would like to assist.
Pastor Josh
