Dear Beloved Siblings,

I miss you! You’ve been in my thoughts, prayers, and heart throughout this season of Advent. There is so much that I want to ask you and share with you as we approach the celebration of Jesus’ birth and his coming anew in our lives. In praying about what to share, I heard gratitude. Thank you for your continued faithfulness. Being the church is worshipping our Creator in all times and places. Being the church is joining in Jesus’ mission of partnering in God’s work of healing, feeding, and growing. Being the church is about God’s gifts of unconditional love and transforming grace. Throughout COVID, by God’s mercy, we have continued to grow, learn, worship, and serve.

Many, many thanks to all who have made virtual worship and worship services in the parking lot possible. Many, many thanks for all who share food for weekenders and write letters for Bread for the World. All who participate in virtual prayer groups, study groups, workshops, and gatherings are appreciated. Your prayers for our local and global communities are cherished. The work of the new Just Peace Exploratory Team is a gift and a blessing. The countless hours given by the health team guiding decisions about our safety and wellness are greatly appreciated. The leadership and efforts of the council of ministries leaders and ministry teams cause me to thank God. It is a blessing to serve with you. When the suffering of neighbors near and far threatens to immobilize me, I return to the spiritual practices, disciples, and gifts of prayer, gratitude, and rejoicing. Praises be to God!

So very much has been different in 2020, but at least two things remain the same – 1) God is love. 2) We are called to love God and love one another. On Christmas eve and Christmas day much will be very different for many of us, but the reason we bow down and humble ourselves before God remains the same. God has come into the world. God is with us. God will never leave or forsake God’s beloved creation and creatures. Jesus our Immanuel, Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace, Mighty God, and Holy One continues to redeem us and set us free to share God’s saving grace. May we join Mary in focusing on the God’s magnificence and glory. May we join Mary in pondering, honoring, and partnering with a God who fills the hungry with good things. May we join the shepherds in drawing near to Jesus and running to share the good news of great joy of his birth. May we hear and embody the praises of angels who remind us that Jesus’ love is for all people. It is for you! It is for everyone! In midst of all the emotions and challenges, in the midst of the suffering and pain, may you know you are held and covered by the hope, peace, compassion, faithfulness, and eternal love of God – Creator, Liberator, and Guide.

Christmas blessings,

Sarah

46 And Mary[f] said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.
Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
50 His mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
and lifted up the lowly;
53 he has filled the hungry with good things,
and sent the rich away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”