Last night in our church there was an ecumenical service of hope, a Blue Christmas service, and it was a first at our church this year.There were many present from all churches in our town.
It is an expectation that everyone will be happy and joyful at Christmas time, but there are many who do not feel that joy. And for those who don’t share those feelings, it can be a time of feeling guilt and alienated from those who do. There are those who are grieving the loss of loved ones, both recent and past. There are some who have no family, or where there are broken relationships. Some are facing health issues, problems at work, financial pressures or are feeling burdened and weary. There are so many hurting people.
This worship service provided a place for many people to come together and know that Christ understands because he faced all those things, and to know that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Candles were lit during the service, and it was a shared time of knowing God’s peace.
Furniture Removal
Today was the day for my cousin to come and pick up the first load of furniture from my shed. One more load and it might be possible to actually fit my car into the shed!!
After the trailer was loaded we had a late lunch and coffee at the local cafe. It was great to talk about old times and shared family memories from years ago. As children, our families spent a lot of time together. Note to self- make more time for catching up with people.
So it has been another busy day, and the cleaning up still is not finished. But I said I am not going to be stressed out over Christmas preparations and what gets done is good, and what is not done, too bad!
And I am glad I made the choice to go to the Blue Service last night, and place a few burdens and issues at the cross and come away in peace. Today has brought different, unexpected issues to deal with and I know that God is in control and will give me strength for whatever lays ahead.
Blessings, From Jude
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