Dear Members and Friends,
Who would think that what was needed to transform and save the earth?
Might not be a plan or army, proud in purpose, proved in worth?
Who would think, despite derision, that a child should lead the way?
God surprises earth with heaven, coming here on Christmas Day. (from Hymn #138)
Centuries of skill and science span the past from which we move,
yet experience questions whether, with such progress, we improve.
While the human lot we ponder, lest our hopes and humor fray,
God surprises earth with heaven, coming here on Christmas Day. (John Bell ’87)
There are a lot of surprises in our Presbyterian Hymnal! This is a new Christmas Carol that I have never heard or sung… but its words seemed so appropriate for Christmas 2020. Many of us have forgotten that one aspect of Christmas is the surprise of what is unexpected. Our God came to earth that first Christmas in such an unexpected way, despite the fact that God’s people had been waiting and watching for centuries! Those living in the fields (shepherds) and Holy men from other cultures picked up on what God was up to… but most people missed it…because it was so unexpected. Perhaps this year when we really don’t know what to expect Christmas to be like… God will surprise us once again. Watch… wait… expect the unexpected!
While the usual hectic pace of the holidays goes on (True Spirit Coalition and Sister Jean’s Pantry in Atlantic City) …it's been great to see our young families visiting the church building so that our kids can dress up as Mary and Joseph, Shepherds and Wise Men, sheep and goats to film our Pageant. Thanks to Jeanie Collins, Kim Grahsler, and Sue Ferguson for their shepherding and to the families who are helping to make the season bright for us all. Make sure to check this mailing for special worship opportunities this Christmas Season and try to be at worship on Sundays through Advent to welcome new members who are being introduced each week.
(For another Advent Devotional…go to pcusa.org/2020advent)
Please join us LIVE on Sunday Mornings at 10:00 am for singing, and 10:15 am for worship. Use this link www.facebook.com/brigchurch.org.
If you haven’t joined us for “virtual worship”, give me a call - you need to join us! The CHURCH WEBSITE is www.brigchurch.org. My email is jrscotland@aol.com. My cell phone is (609) 457-2999.
WE HAVE A DEVOTIONAL GUIDE FOR ADVENT AVAILABLE ON LINE OR IN PRINT, PLEASE LET US KNOW HOW YOU WANT TO ACCESS THIS RESOURCE! Christmas Eve Labyrinth of Light At the Community Presbyterian Church of Brigantine back-lawn 5pm to 9pm, December 24th, 2020 Online worship at 5pm and livestream 11pm Candlelit Service www.brigchurch.org (Masks and social distancing required)
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