I know it is early to be thinking about how hectic our days will get as we get closer to the celebration of the birth of our Lord. With that said, I feel it is my job as your Pastor to prepare you for challenges in life as well as prepare you for your Christian journey.

With a little planning and prioritizing, I believe the celebrations that start with Thanksgiving and go through New Year’s Day can be enjoyable, less stressful, and meaningful. This means we can celebrate what needs to be celebrated while enjoying the companionship of family and friends without unneeded stress.

I remember watching both my mother and mother-in-law prepare for the Holidays for years, and they always seemed to be so organized and everything went so smoothly. That included the year the stove went out at my mom and dad’s house. As I think back now, I remember that they always had a notebook of some sort. In this book was a menu, recipes, duties for others, and who knows what else. I know Deb has adopted this same habit, and it amazes me how she can tell us what the menu was, who we celebrated with and what we did in various years. 

Maybe that is the secret to a stress free holiday. Take notes and refer to them from year to year, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. I know if it weren’t for the support staff I have here at St. Andrew’s, I would not have remembered some very important dates and celebrations this past year. I am very thankful for those of you that make me look like I have it all together.

I encourage everyone to take time early this year to develop a plan for the holidays, so you can celebrate the true meaning of the season. You deserve to enjoy the season and what it means to all who believe.

In Christ’s Love,
Pastor Steve