It's true - watch the news if you dare! You would think Halloween is already here. ("Candy, Candy!" said the kids!) The politics, the wars, the economy, our moral compass - it's all a big mess on TV. It's even a mess at UNC Chapel Hill! Lily was kicked out of a chat group after a political conversation, and some people she needs to "unfriend" made those laughing emoji faces all over an article about her commitment to God! Poor Lily, she always makes it into my articles.
Then there is Maisy - she is quite the political groupie and well-versed on just about every issue. Between her uninformed, but vocal schoolmates and the painful debates, she said she has a headache!
Let's be clear - I do hope you vote; I don't really care who you vote for! Why? Because Christmas is on the way to us again this year! God always has a plan, and whoever is elected, we can lean on the promise that God will work it for our good. How much more blessed could we be?
We have so much to celebrate and the parties are on! Our 25th Anniversary Holy Hay Day is this weekend. The ladies' annual holiday luncheon focuses on keeping Christ at the center of this busy season. Thanksgiving will be here before we know it. Lots of WTB preparations are leading up to another spectacular performance for our community in early December. Random Acts of Kindness, a Cookie Exchange!
We don't share any of those depressing news stories in our Operation Christmas Shoeboxes - we share the message of Christ!
The Bible makes it clear that our world will continue to experience decline, until one fine day, Jesus returns! We can't fix all that is wrong or will continue to go wrong - only God can do that.
So, what are we supposed to do while we wait? What are we supposed to do when we are confronted with angry friends and sad news?
It's easier said than done, but it's really pretty simple! Stay true to your faith, do God's will for you, and when you are faced with difficulties, pray and remember that Christmas is Coming!
So, we're going to practice:
Your candidate doesn't win! You say, "Christmas is Coming!"
Your friends insult you! You say, "Christmas is Coming!"
Your kids say they are afraid of what's happening out there. You say, "Christmas is Coming!"
You are tired and you wonder if you can make it another day. You say, "Christmas is Coming!"
Your friends and family need help and comfort. You say, "Christmas is Coming!"
Maybe a friend says that things are looking great! You say, "Yes, Christmas is Coming!"
What is the secret to life? "Christmas is Coming!" answers the congregation of WFPC in unison!
We are so blessed to have each other to echo the only message that counts. "Christmas is Coming!"
I'm going to start early: I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
With much love,
Leslie Olmo