The morning after the Big Day at Disciples Christian Church -- namely, the Journey to Bethlehem -- there is much to write about. Which direction to take? To say a huge thank-you to Lauren Wicks, Gail and Mark Ritchey who led the effort -- and a thank you to the cast, crew, greeters, musicians, etc. To recognize how well people can work together when there is a common goal? That it doesn't matter whether you are a veteran or a first-timer, senior or child -- all gifts are needed?

The Journey veterans say with pride that this is our church's gift to the community. Indeed it is that to over 900 persons each year. Standing at my post at the exit door, when people realize that I'm the pastor, I receive (on your behalf!) many thank-yous. People recognize the effort and the experience as a gift to their families.

I hope we realize also that Journey is a witness to the community. We are often hesitant witnesses to our faith in Jesus Christ -- we don't know what to say to someone, we don't want to offend anyone, ..... the list of reasons why we do not witness is long. But on this one particular Sunday each year, we are bold in our witness -- to children hearing the story of the Christ Child for the first time and adults who need to hear it again.

The witness is not just to our the larger community. It is effective witness to us all. Who among us -- those who sit in the pews on a Sunday morning -- does not need to hear the story again? Who among us does not benefit from an afternoon away from our regular lives to be taken back in time to the time in Bethlehem when our savior was born?

My prayer is that as we return to our regular lives this week the witness is still in our minds, our hearts, and our actions.

A savior is born -- now go and tell the world!

Blessings,
Pastor Kris



A suggestion to guide your prayers today: At the exit door yesterday, people were wanting to talk about several of our other ministries -- our monthly community meal, No Strings Attached Puppet ministry, our new Connections worship, etc. Offer your prayers for the effective witness of our ministries every day of the year.