December 2024
From the Pastor:
As the song tells us “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” Don’t get me wrong. I enjoy the song. I even agree that it is the most wonderful time of the year in many ways.
What I don’t understand is how the song really makes any sense. For us as faithful people, Advent is the most wonderful time of the year for one reason: HOPE. It is the time of year, when we hear about a message of hope and salvation being brought into the world. We begin with the messages of the prophets; we move to the dramatic proclamation of John in the wilderness. And finally, we conclude the season with the great faith message of Mary describing how God works in her life.
Through the lives of people of faith, we gain inspiration for our own faith. And, what is more, we understand that we are part of a rich tradition extending back 2000 years. I think the Advent season really shapes our faith for the entire year. God’s light comes into the world as a tiny ray. Then, on Christmas that ray becomes a bright light as the moment of Christmas arrives. Even people who have not been attuned to the faith understand the implied sense of hope and faithfulness during this season.
This year, as you consider your Christmas giving, think of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church for a special gift. We have certainly been blessed this year. However, we will continue to face challenges next year as we seek to call a new pastor and as the congregation comes to terms with a large mortgage payment as a budgeted expense.
As we move from Thanksgiving to Advent, we are grateful for all of God’s gifts in our lives. May the season that enriches our lives with the story of God’s grace and love, continue to motivate us in our faith. We continue to pray for God’s enduring love at work in and through us as we share that love with others.
Peace in Christ,
Pastor Scott