CCY CONNECT DECEMBER 2022 EDITION

God’s love is contagious, and every Christian has a responsibility to share it with everyone we meet. Not only do we have the opportunity to witness to others about the love of Christ each and every day, but God has given each of us the ability to touch people in such a way that His love becomes real to them, no matter their situation. This time of the year is often filled with busyness and lots of preparation. I am reminded that in these moments and days, God calls each of us to leave an impression of His love in the hearts of all people that He brings our way, and as a church family, we want to make sure we don’t miss out on the incredible opportunities we have during this season.

Leaving an impression of love on people can be as simple as a smile or sharing God’s word with someone. The Bible says that when we share God’s love with others, the Holy Spirit will work in their hearts and speak the words of truth to them.

It's important to share God's love because there are so many people who don't know what it feels like to be loved unconditionally. If you have the opportunity to share the love of Jesus with someone, please do. It might not seem like a big deal at first, but just imagine how different the world would be if everyone were open about their faith and willing to show unconditional love.

I can share God's love by being kind and giving. I can share God's love by paying attention to people and caring for them. I can share God’s love by using my time well. I can share God’s love through my words. And I can share God’s love with people all over the world through prayer and in giving to help those in need.

Looking back on our “Season of Sharing”, we had almost all of our Operation Christmas Child boxes filled and returned. Inside each box, a child will receive a Christmas blessing and the message of Hope that our Savior brings. At Thanksgiving, filled sacks of groceries to be distributed to anyone as they might have a need – just as the early church did in the book of Acts (Acts 2:45). On Saturday, Dec. 3rd we have our Christ’s Closet Extravaganza in which we will have the opportunity to love on our community by feeding them, clothing them and by allowing parents to shop for kids and kids for parents. We still need volunteers for this – you can come at 10 a.m. that day or sign up on our website.

And on Sunday, Dec. 4th we will take up a special offering at the end of service to build a church building in Burma.

We are a church family that loves to bless others – knowing that we ourselves have been blessed by God. May we continue to reach out with the love of Jesus – knowing that people will notice!

In Christ’s love -

Clay

Bob Hope - “ When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things-not the great occasions give off the happiest glow of happiness. “

When I squeeze my eyes closed, quiet my mind, and conjure up Christmas past, way back when I was young, everything is magical and exciting. I am transported not to any certain place or time, but to all my happy memories of Christmas meshed together with an array of senses. Sounds, I hear the low murmur of my family. It’s like the sound of a restaurant, indistinguishable but a low buzz all around. The football game in the distance, the clanging of dishes in another room. Smells, it smells of spice, of turkey, of thick gravy bubbling on the stove, and hot wassail in the crockpot. I see the glow of lights all around, they twinkle and flash, blurry and soft. I am wrapped in the warmth of their glow. I feel love, comfort, contentment, joy, and excitement. But above all, I recall the awe I felt as I studied the crèche and marveled that the tiny baby in the manger, the one born in a cold, dark stable, came to be my Savior.

In this very busy season may you take a moment to close your eyes and recall the feelings of Christmas. The wonderment and excitement only a child can understand. But most of all the awe of Jesus’ birth.

Merry Christmas!

Melissa Wrona - CCY Parent’s Day Out Director

A Gift For Us to Share

This Christmas my family will be gathering at my grandparent’s house for the first time in 3 years. This is a tradition that I honestly thought we would never do again. To say I am excited is an understatement. On Christmas Eve you will find me sitting at my Grandpa’s feet with Landon and Mia in my lap listening to him read the story of Christmas. I will probably be the happiest person in the room, sharing this tradition that I have loved for years with my babies. A tradition is the handing down of information, beliefs, or customs from one generation to another. If I have learned anything over the last few years, it is that while traditions are important, it is okay if you have to change them up every now and then as long as you don’t lose sight of the true reason you have that tradition, to begin with. Our Christmas Eve tradition hasn’t just been about presents and gathering with family, my grandparents have made sure that as their children and grandchildren grew up they gathered everyone together as a family and reflected on what the day was truly about, our Lord and Savior. What a powerful legacy they are leaving behind. As we come into this season what legacy are you working to leave behind with your loved ones?

In ministry, Christmas seems to last the entire month of December. It is not just a single date on the calendar. As Christians, we should always strive to keep Christmas close to our hearts and not just focus on it one day of the year. So many times we can get lost in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, that we forget to stop and reflect on the true meaning of this special season. Jesus wasn’t just born and that was the end of his story. God sent His son to this earth for us. This is the best gift we could ever receive, and it isn’t a gift we should keep all to ourselves. This Christmas season I challenge us all to go out and share this gift of Jesus with someone. It may be a family member, coworker, friend, or even a stranger you meet at the store. As you celebrate the holidays and carry on family traditions don’t forget to ask yourself what legacy you are leaving behind. Take time to reflect with your family on Jesus and the amazing gift that his birth was.