TAIM (Think About It Moment)

Advent . . . are you ready?     

Christmas began in the heart of God. It is complete only when it reaches the heart of man.

Once again it is time for us to embark upon our journey of Advent that begins on December 1, 2013.  Advent is a time for us to celebrate the gift of Christ with anticipation for his second coming.  Here’s the question: Are we ready to experience the sights and sounds of the nativity that surround the birth of Christ? 

“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her

firstborn, a son.  She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because

there was no room for them in the inn.”

Luke 2: 6&7

Often it seems we’ve lost the character of the nativity setting and have focused on the commercialism of Christmas.  Over the years the bright lights, colorful wrappings, magnificent bows, extravagant gifts, delicious sweets, and the wonderful aroma of hot cider have overshadowed the character found in the stable – a manger filled with the smell of the straw and the animals that call it home.  Don’t forget the weathered wood made from rough-cut boards and wooden posts that have been gnawed on by the tenants over the years.  Listen for the sounds of the birds that gently light on the rafters and sing a melodious tune.  Over in the corner we see the sheep huddled together to stay warm as the donkey rests . . .  having been stripped of its heavy load from the journey.  It is quite a majestic setting for God’s gift to the world! 

“But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy

that will be for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born

to you; he is Christ the Lord.”

Luke 2: 10&11

Have you lost the humble, yet majestic setting of the nativity and the birth of Christ?  Come and journey with us as we prepare to stand at the manger and celebrate the good news.  Maybe God’s been calling to you?  Together, we can kneel at the manger to celebrate and rejoice with the shepherds! 

 In Christ’s Love,

 

Pastor Dennis

Sunday, December 1, 2013 Advent Begins    Traditons Service @ 9:00 a.m

                                                                        Celebrations Service @ 11:15 a.m.

 

Advent Luncheons at Bethany:  Mondays—December 2,9,16, 12 noon until 1 p.m.

 

Christmas Eve Service at Bethany – December 24 @ 7:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.

The Christmas Bazaar is coming!

That's the Bethany Craft Guild members above, hard at work crafting items for their Christmas Bazaar, which is Friday and Saturday, December 6 and 7, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., in the Social Hall. You won't want to miss it, so mark your calendars now! Lunch will be served both days until 2 p.m. Bring your family, friends and neighbors for a great selection of crafts at reasonable prices, wonderful food, scrumptious baked goods, candy, hand-knits, jewelry, attic treasures, fun, fellowship and more. There will also be a Secret Santa Shop for kids only where they can shop for their family members, assisted by Santa's helpers! (Prices $1.50 and under.) Visit the Craft Guild's website at BethanyCraftGuild.com for a preview of some of the items that will be available. Below is a jolly snowman made out of old hymn books (designed by Dee). See you on December 6 and 7!

All Saints Day 2013

Moments to remember and give thanks . . .

We're Getting Ready for the Fall Fling!

Don't miss our Fall Fling, Friday and Saturday, November 8 and 9--8 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, and an all-you-can-eat breakfast for only $3.00 on Saturday from 7:30 until 11 a.m.

We will be preparing the food and goodies the week of the Fling, and our Social Hall and kitchen will resemble the photo above, from last year's Fling prep week. Friday's a la carte menu includes a variety of soups and sandwiches, lasagna, oyster pie, french fries, assorted beverages and home-made cakes. Come join us on November 8 and 9 for some good food, crafts, fellowship and more!