December 2023 Letter

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: 

Many of you know that my mom grew up in St. Petersburg, Florida.  After she was married, mom moved to Ohio and her parents and sister remained in Florida.  Because of that, we went to visit St. Pete quite often, visiting with my grandparents and my aunt.  Heading South was something that I always looked forward to. 

As we prepared to journey south, my grandparents prepared to receive us for our visits.  My grandma, being the Italian hostess with the most, always worked hard and prepared her home for us. The house was cleaned from top to bottom, fridges were stocked with our favorites, treats laid out on our pillows and shopping lists made for the big Italian dinner that she would cook for all.  You name it and she did it! 

My grandfather prepared for us in another way.  He always planned (without my grandma’s knowledge) an extra special surprise.  He would surprise us with trips to Disney World or a short cruise to the Bahamas.  He always had something special up his sleeve. 

Though they differed in their preparation, the goal was always the same.  They endeavored to be prepared for us.  They wanted to spend quality time with us.  Time spent at the kitchen or going on an adventure together.  They wanted us to know that we were cared for and appreciated.  They wanted us to know that we were worth preparing for. 

This year, as advent approaches, I have felt the need to prepare for the coming birth of Christ.  I have felt called to truly prepare my heart.  Though I will still attend to the “things” of Christmas, I will pay closer attention to the “who” of Christmas.  I want to prepare my heart for Jesus.  I want to spend more time focusing on why we celebrate and who we celebrate. When people ask me if I am ready for the holiday, I want to know that my heart is ready to receive Christmas in a new way this year.  

Faith step: Determine how you can be better prepared for Christmas.  Spend these days of Advent preparing your heart for the coming Child of Christmas.  

May you be blessed in the preparation,

Pastor Charlene