Prepare
Advent and Christmas
Preparing for the Unexpected
December 24, 2023
3D Sermon Notes: 12.21 & 12.24 One of the legends of First United Methodist Church is about a nativity that used to be displayed in the Chestnut Street lobby. With this nativity, baby Jesus could be removed from the manger. And guess what, he was, never to be seen again! No one knows how and why he was removed. I’ve heard several theories, but none could be proven. The bottom line is Baby Jesus went missing several years ago and no one has seen him since. Matthew, our building supervisor looked for Jesus. The pastors looked. Everyone searched for Jesus, and he could not be found. Many believe that Jesus hid somewhere in this very building. Others think that Jesus may have left the building. This was before my time, and I have no idea. I do know that people still talk about Him and search for Jesus. There are some who continue to be in active pursuit. And I do believe he will show up and he is going to show up unexpectedly and perhaps when we need him the most. Have you seen Jesus? This week, I encourage you to be on the lookout for Him and you will find him. He will be in the hustle and bustle, the silent nights, the love of others, your church family, worship, and personal devotion. Jesus will be with us because He is always with us. Jesus is “Emmanuel, God with Us.” Advent Blessings, Rev. Sherri
Chancel Choir and Orchestra Christmas Music
December 17, 2023 • Rev. Sherri Reynolds
In your United Methodist Hymnal you will find “There’s a Song in the Air.” The first verse is, “There’s a song in the air! There’s a star in the sky! There’s a mother’s deep prayer and a baby’s low cry! And the star reigns its fire while the beautiful sing, for the Manger of Bethlehem cradles the King!” This week there is a song in the air at First United Methodist Church. You will find it with the choir concerts on Tuesday and Thursday at 6pm and with Christmas Unplugged in the Chapel on Sunday at Celebration. You will especially hear it Sunday as with are blessed with a special time of Christmas worship with the choir during traditional worship at 11am. This week as you hear the songs in the air, may we remember the song which rang out that first Christmas, “Glory to God in the Highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” (Luke 2:14).
