Winning Ways - from Hillcrest Baptist Church, Austin, Texas | Contact Tom Goodman, Pastor |
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"The One We Celebrate"
Jeff Jacoby of The Boston Globe pointed out that 99 percent of the Christmas cards bought and sent in Great Britain this year have no religious message or imagery. In the land where most of our Christmas carols come from, the Christ of Christmas is largely overlooked. It reminds me of a story from W.E. Sangster, who tells about the time he was invited to a lively reception to celebrate a wedding. The only person he knew was the person who invited him, so most of the night he just stood alone as a spectator to the whole affair. He noticed that everyone was having a great time—dancing, playing games, and having much to eat and drink. As the evening progressed, Sangster noticed that he was not the only one sitting alone at this party. He noticed a young lady sitting alone across the room from him. She smiled at Sangster when she noticed him looking at her, and she seemed very happy even though no one seemed to be paying her any attention. Sangster went over to his friend and whispered, "Who's that lady in the corner?" His friend was a little surprised and replied, "Don't you know? Well, let me introduce you. That's the bride." Can you imagine being unnoticed at your own wedding party? That must be how Jesus feels at his “birthday party” each year. This Sunday, December 24, we’ll turn our attention to the Christ of Christmas through our songs and our study. In the morning, we will have one combined service at 10am. There will be no Sunday School, Common Ground Café, or Both services this Sunday will be designed to introduce Christ to those who need him, so be sure to bring family and friends! —Tom Important Notes Hillcrest Christmas Calendar:
“First Place”—Our New Weight Loss Program. As someone said, it’s a “live-it” not a “diet.” Find out more at Herb’s article here. New “Hillcrest Institute” Classes! Click here to learn about our upcoming semester of the Hillcrest Institute. You can register early online! Want to Ski? The 2007 Hillcrest Ski Trip is now open for sign-ups. Contact Jim Siegel right away! Links to Your World
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