CHRISTMAS THOUGHTS

                  As I wait for Christmas 2002, I am reflecting on Christmases both past and future. I remember as a child waiting to go to my grandparent’s house, a traditional event, to be with all available family in the Salem, Oregon, area. There was always a large, decorated, fresh Christmas tree with many wrapped presents. After a sumptuous Christmas dinner at a table large enough to seat us all, we waited to go to the living room to open presents. My grandmother encouraged the four children in my family to attend Christmas church services. Christmas was always meaningful and a happy time, which made the waiting easier.

                  Although I have been active in church as an adult since about 1962, there were several years when I lived in Okinawa and Italy, when Christmases weren’t as meaningful as they are today. Without a doubt, PUMC is the most meaningful and enjoyable church of which to be a member and waiting for Christmas is a real joy. Our magnificent music programs, meaningful services and fantastic congregation are the best of the best. I thank God for what this means to me in the latter years of my life. I pray this will continue for decades to come.

                  Waiting for Christmas is now a treasure.

                                                                 --Dick Glasgow

WAITING FOR……?

“Therefore, do not be anxious about tomorrow,

for tomorrow will be anxious for itself.

Let the day’s own trouble be sufficient for the day.”

--Matthew 6:34

                  Waiting—in a line at the store—at the doctor’s office. Waiting for a red light to turn green. Waiting for Christmas, a birthday, wedding, or family reunion. Waiting for the sun to rise, a day to finally be over, time to go home, a job promotion, a phone call. Waiting for that special someone to enter your life.

                  It seems our lives are filled with “waiting.” But, what about now? Each day is a gift—given to us fresh and new. While “waiting,” we need to be aware of what we have today—this minute. As we anticipate the Christmas season, with all the joys it may bring, may we also enjoy today. The breathtaking wonder of what may come should not overshadow the blessings of what we have right now. This moment in time is ours to savor and treasure for all the tomorrow that our “waiting” may give us.

Be a “now” person and live life with joy and prayerful thanksgiving.

                                                                                                                   --Nancy Ewart