Community News – 12/11/2024
The Beauty of Advent: Anticipating Christmas Together
COMMUNITY –
As we enter the Advent season, we find ourselves drawn into a story that is not only ancient but relevant (eternally so). Advent is a time of waiting, a time of expectation. It mirrors the groaning of the world, the yearning for something better, for rescue, for hope. And at the heart of this season is the great proclamation: God has come.
In the hustle and bustle of December, it’s easy to get caught up in the details—decorations, shopping, gatherings. But what Advent calls us to is something deeper: a pause, a waiting on God, an anticipation of His presence breaking into our lives in unexpected ways. The story of Christmas is the story of God intervening in the most personal, intimate way—He didn’t send a message; He sent Himself. He didn’t just meet us in our best moments, but came to us in our brokenness, our need, our humanity.
The significance of Advent and Christmas isn’t merely a ritual—it’s the recognition that we need a Savior. The darkness we often feel—whether in the world or in our personal lives—needs light. Jesus is that light, and this season reminds us that He is the light shining in the darkness, and the darkness has not won.
This Christmas Eve, we have a special opportunity. It’s more than just a service—it’s an invitation into the story of redemption, of hope, of light. Many in our community are looking for hope, searching for peace, and even if they don’t know it yet, their hearts are longing for the kind of joy and fulfillment that only Christ can bring.
As we gather to celebrate together, we not only proclaim the miracle of God’s coming to us but also share in the beauty of doing life together as His people. There’s something sacred about worshiping in community, especially at Christmas. It’s a foretaste of what we’re ultimately waiting for—a day when all will be made new, when we will celebrate together with Christ Himself.
I want to encourage each of you to take consider this moment prayerfully. Who in your life needs the hope of Jesus? Who needs some good news? Who needs to hear that there is a God who loves them, who became vulnerable for their sake, who offers peace in the midst of chaos? Invite them – not just to a “service” but into your life. For some, Christmas Eve at Community will be the perfect invite (12/24, 1pm or 5pm). For others, it may be an invitation to share a meal or coffee and some meaningful conversation.
Christmas is a season of invitation. God is inviting us into His story of hope and redemption. Don’t keep that kind of invitation to yourself! Don’t underestimate the power of a simple invitation—it may be the start of a life transformed by the gospel.
As we prepare our hearts this Advent, let’s not forget that the joy of Christmas is meant to be shared. Let’s come together in anticipation, celebration, and worship of the God who came near.
With Joy –
Pastor Brett
P.S. As you invite others to Christmas Eve or another shared and meaningful moment, can I join you in praying for that specific person? Text the name to (626) 779-9727 and I’ll add them to my prayer list over the next two weeks. It would be a privilege to pray with you like this!
