What are you doing for Christmas this year?
 
It's a question we undoubtedly will ask our neighbors, barbers and hair stylists, co-workers, and grocery store clerks over the course of the next week. It's a question that others will pose to us numerous times in the coming days as well.
 
First, how will you answer? Of course, you will mention something about your family traditions - at whose home you gather to exchange gifts, what relatives will be there, and treasured recipes you always enjoy. You might talk glowingly about a neighborhood that is your best kept secret for viewing Christmas lights or a spot-on gift you found that is sure to bring tears to the recipient's eyes. Or, you might share about some special travel plans to connect with loved ones out of town.
 
Will you also share openly about your tradition of worship on Christmas Eve? Of gathering with your church family and hearing the miraculous story of Jesus' birth once more? Of lifting candles and singing Silent Night? Will you be gentle but clear that celebrating Christmas is just not complete without the experience of worshipping the newborn King? Will you be a witness?
 
Second, how will you respond to the answers others give you? If someone's answer tells you that for them Christmas is limited to family and Santa and nostalgia, will you kindly ask them: Have you ever been to a candlelight service on a Christmas Eve? Would you like to come with me?
 
There is something about this time of year that cracks open closed minds and softens hardened hearts.
               
 Everyone asks one another: What are you doing for Christmas this year? It is Jesus' disciples - those called to be the light of the world - who ask: Would you like to come with me to worship and make this Christmas something more than commercial, but actually spiritual?
               
A great new Christmas tradition: sharing the wonder and peace of a candlelight service on Christmas Eve with someone who will experience it for the first time, or the first time in a long time.
               
On December 24th
4:30 p.m. - Family Nativity Service, designed for families with young children                                           
5:00 p.m. - Contemporary Worship Service with praise band and candlelight                             
7:00 p.m. - Traditional Worship Service with candlelight and holy communion                   
11:00 p.m. - Traditional Worship Service with candlelight and holy communion
               
Grace and Peace, Pastor Andy