December 8, 2016
Some of you will be following the Advent Calendar. And some reading this will have no idea of what “Advent” actually means. I have to confess that observing Advent has never been a strong part of my Christmas tradition. Tradition, according to psychology, is a healthy exercise.
Over the years many traditions have been developed around the Christmas theme. Some are close to the Bible narrative; others have no resemblance to the original story. For the next three weeks I will be sharing the story from the perspective of the three main characters; Mary, Joseph, and Jesus.
Next Sunday I will be speaking on what Mary thought of the whole thing and how Mary’s response is important to us today. Some of the challenging questions we will answer are: Was Mary a virgin as she carried this child? Does it matter one way or another? Does the manner of Christ’s conception and birth actually make any difference in our lives? I will endeavour to answer these questions with clarity and honesty.
When one considers the implications of what was wrought, the following statement is probably one of the most profound statements of all times.
"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38)
Mary had the privilege of carrying the Saviour of the world in her body. She had this opportunity simply because she said; “I am willing.” I wonder what great thing the world has missed solely because of the unwillingness of our prideful hearts to say, “I am willing.” Willingness is the first step in all great endeavours.
Why not make a decision today to be willing to accept whatever assignment God has given you? This Sunday we will unpack this idea a bit. It is our strong belief that all of us have a divine purpose. I trust each one of us will find it.
Communion
This Sunday we will be coming to the Lord`s table. It is a time for all of us to share the emblems we have chosen to represent the body and blood of our Lord. We do this in response to the teaching of our Lord, as he taught; we are to do this often. It is a time of reconnecting with Jesus and each other as we share God’s grace together.
KCF Bookkeeper
Corinne McFadyen our long-time and faithful bookkeeper is moving on to a new stage in her life focusing in on her family. We will miss working with her and wish her all the best. This leaves KCF with a need for a new bookkeeper.
Kootenay Christian Fellowship in Nelson BC is seeking a person who is proficient in all aspects of bookkeeping and QuickBooks. This is a part time position, approximately 30 hours per week. Competitive wage. Email resume to office@kcfoffice.com
Opportunities to Pray Together
Prayer is the life and breath or the church. You can join us at 10am on Sunday morning at KCF in the Sunday School Room and/or start your day out on the right foot and join us Wednesday mornings, 7am at KCF. Come and experience God moving.
Hosting/Greeting Team Meeting
Do you enjoy meeting new people? We are welcoming interested individuals to attend our next Host Meeting this coming Sunday, December 11 right after our Celebration. Come and join us to find out more and explore if this is an area that God may be calling you to stretch into. This is a great way to contribute to the church in a tangible and fun way.
Christmas Bake Sale
No time for Christmas baking? No problem. Come on down to S.H.A.R.E. Nelson on Saturday, December 17 from 10am – 3pm for the annual Bake Sale. All sale proceeds go to Our Daily Bread. Baked goods are welcome at KCF by Friday Dec 16 (no need to plate/package them). Delivery in disposable containers is ideal.
NEW! Junior Teens
Each Friday, from 4 – 5:30pm Youth ages 11 – 14 will meet at KCF and are welcome to stop in for some fun times.
Christmas Tales
Christmas Tales is a wonderful theatrical production at the Capitol Theatre featuring storyteller Justyn Rees, singer/songwriter Russ Rosen, Multi-instrumentalist Brett Ziegler, percussionist Scott Melnyk and special guest Graham Ord. This is a great opportunity to purchase tickets for yourself and some friends and/or family. It’s a great gift idea. Tickets are only $10 per person at the KCF Office (special pricing).
Calendar of Events
Visit our website at http://www.kootenaychristianfellowship.com for all the news, sermons, and places to donate.
Looking forward to seeing you this Sunday.
Pastor Jim
E-transfers to office@kcfoffice.com
Kootenay Christian Fellowship520 Falls Street (1/2 Block up from Baker Street)Nelson, BC V1L 6B5