Aldersgate Experiences
Volume 12
Aldersgate United Methodist Church
What Are You Waiting For? By the time you receive this newsletter we will have begun the season of Advent. Advent is a season of preparation and waiting. In my family we tend to prepare and wait by decorating, cooking, buying, and wrapping. We look forward to Christmas when we will join together with extended family, eat a big meal, and swap gifts. But 2000 years ago the people of Israel were hoping for a Savior. Most were hoping for a military hero who would overthrow the Roman government that was oppressing them. Many Israelites felt that would solve everything – if they could just be independent again and be allowed to govern themselves. So they waited for a conquering hero. They waited for someone to save them from the life they were living. What are you waiting for? Is there something in the back of your mind that has you thinking, “If only this would happen then everything would be all right”? Maybe it is a Christmas bonus, or a promotion. Maybe it is improved health or a better relationship with somebody. Do you catch yourself thinking, “If only I could get to retirement…” Or, “If only we can make it until the kids get out on their own…” Or, “If I just had a new car…” What are you waiting for that you think, hope, and wish will completely change your life around for the better? Something that will “save” you from your current situation. When Jesus came to us, He didn’t come to be a conquering hero, to get us a promotion, or give us a new car. However, He did come to save us from our sins. He did come to save us from death. He did come to save us from ourselves and from this world that can often be cold and cruel. In Jesus we have a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. In Christ we can find hope, joy, peace and love. In Christ we can find healing, forgiveness, restoration, and reconciliation. This is what we really need. Yes, Advent is a time to prepare and wait for our Savior; and if we are ready for Jesus to come into our lives, we will find that He is all we really need. Merry Christmas, Pastor Doug
December 2011 Inside this issue:
Music Ministry Lovefeast Acolytes Schedule Nursery Schedule Season Activities Birthdays Christian Formation Youth Ministry Communications Evangelism WNL for Kids Safe Sanctuaries Financials Altar Guild for Dec. Trustee for Dec. Lay Schedules Thank You’s WNL Meals Fundraisers Music Ministry
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