December 19, 2022  

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Christmas is less than one week away! I know this is a hectic time for us all. There is so much to do and so little time. School families have the service tomorrow. We have two services this weekend. Perhaps you have a Christmas party to attend or a flight to catch. If you are like me, you still need to wrap the presents and put them under the tree. This can be a stressful time. So, I ask, how are you? How do you feel? Are you anxious about the coming days? Do you still have many boxes to check on your to-do list?

In many ways, Christmas is viewed as a season of giving...a season to think of others...a season to donate your time...a season to make the holiday cheerful for your family and friends. Do you ever feel overwhelmed by this spirit of giving? Maybe you are tired. Maybe you are ready for January. As I look forward to all that is in front of us, I get it. 

If this is how you feel, I want to give you this encouragement. In the midst of the busyness of the season, find some time to rest. Your Savior offers you rest. This is what he says in Matthew 11:28-30, "'Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.'" Don't forget to take time to reflect upon the significance of this season. We have a God who loved us so much that he took on flesh to dwell among us. As we understand the reality of his grace, mercy, and love, it really puts all of this into perspective.

Further, as you are looking to give to others, find time to be fed. Now, I'm not talking about eating a hardy meal. (But, certainly do that as well!) Be fed spiritually. Go to where our God promises to feed our faith. As you are pouring out love to your family and friends, go to where our God promises to pour out his love upon you. Find refuge in God's Word. Consider his grace. Join us for worship. What better way could we celebrate the birth of our Savior then to go where he promises to "give us the goods." I look forward to having the privilege of confessing Christ to you this Christmas. I cannot wait to join with you and proclaim the praises of our newborn King.

God's richest blessings to you all and Merry Christmas!

Pastor Pflughoeft