John Miller served as acolyte for the first time and did a smooth job. John is a young adult who attends church with his mom, Karen Miller.
The lighting of the 3rd Advent candle was done by Lee Leatherwood, Lisa Leatherwood, his mother, read the Advent message. Pat Leatherwood operated the power Point program for the congregation.
It is a joy to see John and Lee taking part in church, these young adult men are our future and it is good hands.
It was announced that Rev. Austin who was pastor here at First United Methodist during the early 1980s, is still active and preaching. Leta said he preached Ernest Schillingburg’s funeral two weeks ago and she got an opportunity to speak with Rev. Austin.
Kathy Logan asked for prayers for her granddaughter Holly, and Jack Parks needs prayers for his nephew.
We were reminded to pray for the Thiebaud Children and their friend who were injured in the wreck. Also the Velasco brothers, Adan and Jesus, are still in serious condition from their pick up wreck.
The families of these young folks have to stay near them in Fort Worth and have expenses for food, gas, and lodging. Any help you could give them would be much appreciated. Also a visit by the hospital to let them know you care would be welcome. And pray, pray, pray for these young people to recover. They are at the beginning of their lives and mean the world to their families.
Pat Beaty sang a special during the offertory, it was titled “Sing a Song of Bethlehem.” It was a wonderful song and sung wonderfully.
“Rejoice! Pray! And Give Thanks!” That was the title and theme of Rev. Kenneth Lunsford’s sermon. He was in a celebrating mood.
Pastor Ken started with a funny true story about a fellow who sings at weddings and funerals. It seems this lady called and asked him to sing at her husband’s funeral. The man had died suddenly from a heart attack. She said her husband’s favorite song was “Jingle Bells” and that is what she wanted sung. The singer questioned her about the choice but she insisted.
At the funeral the singer rose and sang heartily,“Jingle Bells.” The congregation gave him dirty looks and became hostile toward him. Afterward the widow gave the singer a check and in an irate voice said, “I meant ‘Glory Bells! Not Jingle Bells.”’
Pastor said the Christmas season is a joyous celebration. The scriptures tell us that all of life should be a joyous celebration. I Thessalonians 5, verse 16, say, “Rejoice always.” The entire sentence reads like this: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” “Joy to the world,” we sing, “the Lord has come.”
If you believe in Jesus Christ and your heart is not filled with joy, ask God for it. It is your birthright as one who has given your life to Jesus. Christmas is the perfect time for doing that. Joy is our witness to the world that God is alive. The pleasures of life will fail us one day. The joy of Christ resides in us and undergirds us regardless of what is happening on the outside. “Count your many blessings...” says an old Gospel tune. Do it daily and it will transform your life. You might even sing “Jingle Bells”at a funeral.
Join us for Christmas services. Laurel St. United Methodist will have a candle light service on December 22 at 6:30 p.m. and First United Methodist will have a candle light program on December 24 at 6:30 p.m. There will be refreshments after both of these services. Christmas Day services are at Laurel St. at 9:30 a.m. There will be no service at First Methodist on Christmas Day.
Saturday, December 17, will look like Santa’s workshop in the Clay Annex as the Goodfellows prepare to box up and deliver food and gifts to area families. May God Bless the Goodfellows! Contact Michael Haley at 445-8137 to help in any way.