Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house!’ And if a person of peace is there, your peace will rest on that person, but if not, it will return to you. - Luke 10:5-6
The second Sunday of Advent is the Sunday of Peace. Here in the text Jesus speaks of a kind of peace that is not just the absence of conflict, but a deep, spiritual peace that comes from knowing God’s presence and grace. In the Old testament, peace is often associated with SHALOM, a word that embraces wholeness, completeness, and reconciliation. It is a peace that restores, heals and makes things right.
When Jesus sends out his disciples to offer peace. He is not just telling them to speak kind words. He is commissioning them to bring God’s way of life into people’s lives, to offer them a peace that surpasses understanding - a peace that only comes from God, a peace that is a sign of the reign of God and the work of the reconciliation Jesus came to accomplish through His life, death and resurrection.
The peace of Christ is a gift that is available to all, but it is up to each individual to receive it. Just as the message of Jesus is sometimes accepted and sometimes rejected, God’s peace is offered to everyone. But it can only remain and live where it is welcomed.
As followers of Christ, we are called to be ambassadors of peace, carrying the message of God's kingdom wherever we go. Where can you be intentional about bringing the peace of wholeness and reconciliation in your life circles?
Peace, Pastor Erin
Join us tonight at 6pm for Christmas Caroling! Meet at the church and we will walk over to the Acute Care Center. Dress Warmly!
Last Thursday's football night was a huge success, so we're doing it again! Join us this Thursday, the 12th, at 5 PM to watch the Los Angeles Rams battle the San Francisco 49ers. Bring your favorite snacks and drinks to share with fellow football fans and friends. Thanks to an anonymous donor and a Thrivent Action Plan, we have a 15' screen and a new sound system for the ultimate viewing experience.
Mark your calendars for a festive Family Movie Night on December 14 at 6:00 PM on the lawn! Join us for the hilarious and heartwarming film, Elf, and enjoy Buddy the Elf's unforgettable holiday cheer and optimism.
Bring your own chair, blanket, snacks, and drinks, and get ready for an evening of laughter, fellowship, and holiday fun with loved ones. Don’t miss this special night to celebrate the season together!
We are excited to present our Christmas Program on December 22nd at the 9am service. There will be a rehearsal on Sunday, December 15 at 12pm for a walk-through. We encourage all of our students to come and take part. There will be jobs and ways to help and be involved for everyone!
Join Us for Young at Heart! Let’s gather for delicious food, great company, and unforgettable memories! Young at Heart is happening on December 19 at noon. Sign up at the welcome desk to reserve your spot. Looking forward to seeing you there!
Come celebrate Christ’s birth with us this Christmas! Everyone is welcome to join us for all of our Christmas worship celebrations!
Thursday, December 21 - Blue Christmas Service at 4pm
Tuesday, December 24 - Christmas Eve Worship Services Children’s Worship Service at 4pm Candle Light Worship Service at 9pm
Wednesday, December 25 - Christmas Day Service at 10am
Calling All Tech Wizards! TLC is excited to announce our upcoming Tech Fair on January 5, 2025 at Noon! This event is designed to help our community navigate the digital world with confidence. Whether you're a seasoned tech user or a curious beginner, we invite you to share your knowledge and skills. If you're passionate about technology and enjoy helping others, please consider volunteering your time to assist attendees with their devices and questions. Your expertise will make a real difference in our community. If you are available to help out, please contact Leo in the church office.
December Blood Pressure Check Schedule
December 15 - 10:00am and Noon in the Prayer Room
Blood pressure checks are available the 1st and 3rd Sundays in the prayer room between services. Our faith community nurse, Karen Jensen, RN, PhD, will be on hand.
Project Understanding is in need of of hotel-size shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, disposable razors, toothbrushes and toothpaste for make hygiene kits.
City Center is in need of any type of cleaning supplies and size 6 diapers.
Your support is greatly appreciated. Please place items in the baskets located in the gathering space.
Congratulations to Nancy and John Hammett on celebrating their 70th Wedding Anniversary!
December 12 - Donna Johnson December 13 - Gregory Rose, Stephen Wall, Jr. December 14 - Bethany Inoshita December 15 - Melanie Hanisco, Jenny Ruedy December 17 - Craig Johnson
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the friends and families for the recent passing of: Alan Bryan, brother of Debbie Gause
