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Hello St. John’s Family,
“I’ve got too many things to do, and not enough time to do them.”
That sentiment is one that almost all of us can agree on. I can’t count how many times I’ve heard that statement – or something like it – expressed. And it’s a sentiment I often feel as well. There aren’t many days that I’m able to cross off all the tasks listed on my “To Do List” and end the day feeling like I’ve accomplished what needed to be done. We live in a culture and society with a never-ending stream of responsibilities and demands – especially at this time of the year. The cumulative weight of that is so heavy; it can burden our hearts and souls.
All of which makes the recent weeks here at St. John’s so amazing. Consider how, in just the past few weeks, you have:
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Collected and delivered a truckload of coats to The Center – Philadelphia at Arch Street UMC, for distribution to unsheltered and vulnerable persons in the city
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Purchased hundreds of gifts and gift cards for vulnerable children and families in Bucks County served by Diakon Child and Family Services
- Contributed almost $2000 to assist a local family who lost their home to a devastating fire
- Contributed almost $1000 to purchase supplies for then assembled 12 UMCOR flood buckets
- Coordinated and presented our Living Nativity, bringing the Christmas story to life for our community (with Percy the camel and all!)
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Prepared for Music Sunday and our 25th Festival of Carols and Food Drive this Sunday, extending the beauty and joy of Christmas through song while collecting non-perishable food items for local families in need
- Are generously contributing to our Advent Mission Offering, supporting the Grace Café feeding ministry and Daytime Services offered at The Center – Philadelphia
As I look back at that extensive list, it quickly reminds me of how you take to heart our mission of being a people of Open Arms and Serving Hands, Transforming Lives Through Christ. Those aren’t merely words; that statement guides your lives as you sincerely attempt to share the goodness and blessings you have experienced through Christ with others. Thank you for your faithfulness and giving hearts!
So, if you are finding yourself tired or burdened by your never-ending task list, pause for a few moments today. Sit down, read the list above, and thank God for the good that will be accomplished through those offerings of love. Ask God to restore your soul and strengthen you, that you will not grow weary in doing what is right (Galatians 6:9). And know how honored Christ is by all you do in his name!
This Sunday, we’ll be blessed as we experience the joy and beauty of Christmas through music during our Music Sunday worship services. Then, after a powerful morning of worship, we’ll return at 6pm for our 25th Festival of Carols and Food Drive. It will be a meaningful and uplifting day – I hope you’ll join me on Sunday!
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Brad
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