December 24, 2017
We hope you had a Merry Christmas and will have happy and safe new year.
At the Sunday morning service, I served as Worship Leader, I gave announcements and read our scripture lesson from Luke 1: 26-36.
The Salinas family did the Advent Reading and lighting of the fourth candle.
Adrian, Raymond, Joe, and Jaxson performed their task well.
Leta Sage sang a touching version of “Hallelujah” that brought tears to our eyes.
When it was time for celebrations and concerns, Pat Leatherwood, who is Chairman of our Staff, Pastor, Parish Relations Committee, came up to the dais to make presentations. Our wonderful music team of Pat Beaty and Leta Sage both received a well-deserved gift from the congregation. Pat Leatherwood next gave a gift to Rev. Ken Lunsford. Then he presented Jeannie Wendt, our former Administrative assistant, with a “Coloring Bible.” All these things are deeply appreciated.
Our congregation extends sympathy to the family and friends of Seth Turner. Seth was a good man who worked with the local ministers when lodging was needed for a destitute traveler. Seth also gave discounted or free lodging to service organizations and clubs who had dignitaries or speakers coming to Dublin.
Richard Harbin and Reggie Schexnider were lifted in prayer.
Rev. Lunsford titled his sermon, “Nothing is Impossible for God.”
In the book of Luke, it says Mary was perplexed by what the Angel Gabriel told her. Mary’s response was, “How can this be?”
Many of us have the same reaction when God desires to birth something great through us. We can’t believe it, we are afraid, we get perplexed also. Maybe for a long time God has been tugging on your heart to accomplish something special. And you are giving back doubts and excuses. Get "Can’t" out of your vocabulary.
Mary stepped out in faith and said, “Here am I, a servant of the Lord, let it be according to God’s word!” For Gabriel said to Mary,” Nothing is impossible with God!”
Lisa Leatherwood was our Worship Leader at the Christmas Eve Candlelight service and she performed the first reading of the Nativity Story from Luke. The Sammy Moore family gave the Advent Reading and lit the center candle.
The second through the sixth lessons of Christ’s Nativity were given by the following; Ally Leatherwood, Jaden Harrell, Silas Leatherwood, Joe Salinas, and Tyler Harrell. We thank Laura Leatherwood for organizing and working with these youngsters to make the program a success.
“When Christmas Comes to Me,” was sung by Pat Beaty, Leta Sage accompanied her. It was a “goose bump” experience.
Pastor Ken preached a short message about “A Great Light!” Next the Lord’s Prayer was said in unison, then Communion was served at the altar rail. Lastly, we sang Silent Night while holding our candles in the dimly lit sanctuary.
Refreshments followed in the foyer and almost everyone stayed to eat a cookie, laugh, hug, or shake hands. When all was cleaned away and the building secured, Pastor Ken and I went home feeling humbled but very joyful.