Sermon, Dec. 7th - "One Hope" Scripture: Romans 8:18- 28

"Since there will never cease to be some in need on the earth, I therefore command you, open your hand to the poor and needy neighbor in your land." Deuteronomy 15:11

The Lord made clear the responsibility we as a Christian society have toward the poor. Not just to the spiritually poor, but to those with physical needs as food, clothing and shelter. The economic crisis facing our country will not be reversing quickly, and as a result we will all be facing increasing shortages with our personal resources. Are we prepared to make the sacrifices we are called to make in helping those in poverty, when we might be facing poverty ourselves? Jesus replied when asked if one could follow him (Matt. 19:21), "If you want to be perfect, go and sell everything you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven." While perfection may not be in our reach, maximum effort is required of each of us at some point. As a community of Christians and a Church family, those in need will be served.

God's Open Hands is one means of helping those in our community who are experiencing poverty. Extra funds are needed for the food pantry as the number of families seeking assistance is increasing weekly. Let this be your way of acknowledging the second greatest of the Lord's Commandments: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Matt. 22:29)

Last Sunday was a wonderful blending of conventional hymns and praise songs, led by Danny Hollis, our Praise and Worship service leader. Taylor Cramer performed "A Shepherd's Song" while members of the congregation and the children placed special symbols or adornments on the Christmas tree. The Oliver family, John, Kasey and their sons, Levi and Luke, lighted the first advent candle with the reading of Isaiah 40:3-5. Thus the most joyous of Christian seasons begins.

Start off your Christmas season by attending the "Rediscover Christmas, a Family Experience" this Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a Christmas gift from the United Methodist Churches of Brownsboro, Chandler, Edom, Murchison, Lake Palestine, New Hope and Ben Wheeler communities. There will be fun for the whole family. Walk through Bethlehem and participate in the scenes of the shepherds and angels while they worship our newborn Lord resting in the manger. There will be crafts on display, with music, and food free to everyone. The location will be at Scott's Gym in Brownsboro. For directions and information visit www.rediscoverchristmas.org.

Next Sunday, December 7th and Monday, December 8th will be the "Tour of Trees" to be held in Heritage Hall. Remember to vote on your favorite tree with cans of food that will be given to God's Open Hands after the event. A prize will be given to the winner. Each year more and more community organizations have participated by decorating a tree, so plan on spending some time in viewing. There are some very unusual and unique trees to be voted on, so you may want to bring a box full of food cans.

Place on your calendar, December 14th. The Cantata will be performed at the 10 a.m. service, with the Children's program offered at 6 p.m. This day of worship will be a wonderful time for family members and friends to share with us the Advent season, so start inviting everyone you know and those you may like to know, and even those you might think you don't want to know. Your favorite friend may be hidden in plain sight!

Happy Anniversary to: Russell and Geraldine Bradford. Happy Birthday to: Julie Holcomb, Bill Snow, John Killough, Tom Martin, Bobby Long, Janice Poteet, Carlin Cherry, and James "Cubby" Griffin.

Thought for the Week: "If we abide by the principles taught in the Bible, our country will go on prospering and to prosper, but if we and our posterity neglect its instructions and authority, no man can tell how suddenly a catastrophe may overwhelm us and bury all our glory in profound obscurity. " -Daniel Webster.