From the Congregational Church of Eastford
Greetings and Merry Christmas, Eastford! What an abundance of blessings we share in Eastford. We enjoy such beauty, the comfort and quiet of a small town, and are surrounded by so many good and generous people.
Now, I grew up in the sunbelt, and so every year at this time I get all excited about the prospect of a white Christmas. There have been more than a few disappointments in recent years, but for me, hope springs eternal. I have childhood images of snow and seeing your breath in the cold air, of candles and Christmas lights, carols and tasty treats. I think of sleigh bells and children all excited. New England Christmas is special.
But, in the middle of my life I came to understand something much better. When I was 39, a life crisis brought me to that humble place where we find ourselves broken and out of solutions, and open to help. My help came from above as I surrendered my life to Jesus. And it was the best thing to ever happen to me.
So, for me, the most wonderful part of Christmas is the celebration that Jesus, the Son of God, chose to abandon His lofty place in the heavenlies and came to earth. He was born in a stinky stable because there was no room in the inn that night. Angels proclaimed His birth to simple shepherds. Jesus’ crib was a feeding trough. Thirty-three years later He humbled Himself and surrendered His all by dying on a cross for us. His death paid for our sins, allowing us to be reconciled to the God who created us and to be forgiven, set free from our captivities to the bad stuff of this life, from guilt and from shame, and to even escape death. Christmas is our celebration of this truth – the Jesus really and truly came. I do hope Jesus will be central to your Christmas. You can worship with us if you like, or Eastford Baptist or any number of solid churches in our area.
Two final thoughts. First, when Jesus’ earthly parents, Mary and Joseph needed a room that glorious night, there was no room in the inn. Our lives are so full – all busy with events and obligations, and so full of distractions, sorrows and worries. I know I have a full plate. And so, I plan to take my own advice in this – to make Him room in my heart and in my life this holiday season. I can tell you from experience that if you make that move it will bring joy, peace, love and hope. And second, on that glorious night when the sky filled with a great multitude of angelic beings, they cried out, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace…” Jesus is the Prince of Peace. My prayer and wish for you all is that His peace will be yours.
Merry Christmas!
P.S. Our new building is really coming along. Drive by and take a look. It’s at 54 John Perry Rd. Thank you for all your support!
P.P.S. Special Christmas worship for us is Sunday, Dec. 21, at 10 a.m., when we will celebrate with a multi-generational Christmas pageant, and then on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, at 5 p.m. when will have a service of lessons and carols. We meet in the Eastford School gym. Join us!