A Holiday Reflection

December 21, 2021

From Pastor Joe

If I decorate my house perfectly with fancy bows, strands of twinkling lights and glittering ornaments, but do not show love to my family, I am nothing more than a decorator.

If I sweat and slave in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at the Christmas table, but do not show love to my family, I’m just another cook.

If I volunteer at the homeless shelter, sing carols in the nursing home and give an offering to charity, but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing.

If I trim the tree with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend an assortment of holiday parties and sing in the choir’s cantata but do not focus on my love for God, I have missed the mark.

Love stops the cooking to hug the child.

Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the loved one.

Love is kind, though busy and tired.

Love doesn’t envy another person’s home or cars or money.

Love doesn’t yell at the kids to get out of the way but is thankful they are there to be in the way.

Love doesn’t give only to those who are able to give in return but rejoices in giving to those who are not able.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.

Love never fails.

Smartphones will become outdated, jewelry might be lost, golf clubs will rust, but giving the gift of love will endure.

It is my absolute pleasure and privilege to be your pastor, and I thank you for that opportunity. Love is what binds us together. The Love of Christ for us and in us. May you be blessed this season with LOVE in your heart and in your home.