Greetings!
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A Charlie Brown Christmas:
The TRUE Meaning of Christmas |
"There were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."
One of the best Christmas Movie Classics of all time is A Charlie Brown Christmas. In the movie, poor old Charlie Brown was having so much difficulty understanding what the holiday was all about. Then, as only Charles Shultz could do it, scriptures were read to American Children just like me. THIS made me proud to be a Charlie Brown / Peanuts fan.
A Childhood Christmas Contest
It was Christmas 1977, and I was twelve years old. I lived in Hastings, Nebraska, and the children's ministry issued a challenge: "Whoever can memorize the most verses of the Christmas Story from Luke 2 would win a Nativity Set for your house."
Naturally, being the competitive person I am, decided to win the contest from beginning. I sized up the passage and determined that I would have to memorize twenty verses, so I set a minimum requirement of one per day.
Due to the buzz amongst the children, I found out that my primary competitor was Tami Tyson, a really smart girl. I knew I was in trouble. Knowing that she would memorize all twenty verses with ease, I knew I needed to somehow have an edge.
I figured it out! I could memorize just ONE ADDITIONAL verse of scripture, Luke 2:21, which mentioned His presentation and ritual circumcision at the Temple. I had heard it mentioned in Christmas sermons, so why not?
On the day of the contest, she said, "I have the whole story memorized, and I'm going to win." I acted disappointed, and sure enough, Tami eloquently quoted the entire 20 verses with intellectual precision.
My heart lept when she stopped at verse 20 and sat down. I took the stage and quoted all 20 verses, paused, swallowed, took a deep breath, smiled, and quoted Luke 2:21 as the conclusion. Applause erupted and I won the Nativity Set. I was also allowed to quote the story for the entire congregation at the Christmas Service.
Last week, my mother told me that she still has the Nativity Set and would give it to me!!! Why does that still mean so much to me?
Well, partially because "I won", but also because ever since then, that passage of scripture has echoed in my heart and mind, continually resurfacing. It was so much more meaningful than memorizing the Gettysburg Address or the Preamble to the Declaration of Independence. It is the story of Christ's entrance into this world, and those words still brings warmth to my soul.
He Will Be Called
Next Sunday is the final message in this series, He Will Be Called ... Prince of Peace.
In a world where peace does NOT seem to rule and reign, how can this be true? You have to be in church to find out!
End of Year Giving
A simple way to give to the ministry of City Life Center prior to the end of the year is by donating online. It's simple and secure.
Go to CityLifeCenter.org and click the orange "Give Online" button.
If City Life Center has been a blessing to you this year, would you please consider making a year-end contribution? Thank you.
A White Christmas?
Will it happen? Here in Fort Worth, even a 20% chance of snow flurries gets everyone excited ... especially on Christmas.
The good thing is if the weather really is a bit nasty, we will all be safe in our homes and away from the crazy drivers. Have you ever noticed that it's always the OTHER person that is the crazy Texas driver and not you?
I hope it snows a couple of inches.
The Alpha Course
I'm excited about personally leading The Alpha Course at City Life Center. I finally have the dates and times:
Sundays beginning January 20, 9:30-10:30AM
Thursdays January 24 6:30-7:30AM
This is gonna be goooooood!
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The Alpha Course
Coming to City Life Center |
The Alpha Course gives participants the opportunity to ask tough questions such as..
Is there a God?
Why am I here?
Where did I come from?
Where am I going?
Alpha gives everyone the opportunity to explore the meaning of life during the 13 week event. Everyone is welcome to contribute their opinions and no question is considered hostile or too simple.
For More Information:
Call City Life Center at 817.203.4565
Email ME at Tim@CityLifeCenter.org
Have a MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Let me know how I can pray for you,
