CCOG Newsletter
Weekly Updates
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Reflections from Pastor Jennifer
Do you believe that God has a plan for your life? Do you feel as though you are on a path toward purpose, or have you been drifting along through life? Remember that Yahweh spoke to the prophet Jeremiah, "“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you." God is a planner. Not only did He plan for the life of Jeremiah and the life of Jesus, He made a plan and purpose for each of us. The important step for us to take is that of obedience. God may have the perfect plan with all aspects in place, but if we never walk in obedience, we cannot enjoy all He has in store. Taking a wrong turn or even getting tired of the journey is normal. Just live in obedience to Him.
Help for the Homeless
This Tuesday, Dec. 19 is our night for caroling and Christmas stockings. All are welcome, just be at church in time to leave at 5pm. Dress warmly, but also in festive Christmas attire! If you are not able to go this time, please remember to give blankets, coats, socks, and/or underclothes for our outing on January 16.
Community Christmas Event
On Saturday, Dec. 23 come out to watch a movie under the stars. The entire event is free and available to the entire community. Concessions begin at 6pm, & the movie will begin in at 6:30pm. Bring a chair and blanket (events will be held in the fellowship hall in the event of rain).
5th Sunday Breakfast
Bring lots of family and friends to celebrate the final Sunday of the month and the year! We will begin at 10am with a delicious breakfast, followed by a time of devotion. We will be in the fellowship hall for this event.
January Focus: Fasting
Begin now to prepare your heart for fasting. As a church, we will begin 2024 with 21 days of fasting and prayer. Ask God what He would require of your fast. Is it food? A food item? Technology? Spending? That is between you and Him. Replace the fasted item with prayer, Bible reading, meditation, and giving.
Guest Speaker
Dr. Tatum will be with us on January 7. He is an excellent speaker who always has a practical and encouraging message. Make sure that you are in attendance on the first Sunday of 2024. You will be blessed.
FSM
The first First Sunday Meal of 2024 is on January 7. Even though some will be fasting food entirely, or certain food items, we will still enjoy a time of fellowship. Start off the new year with plenty of food and guests.
A Thrill of Joy - The Practice of Joy
As we make space to consider the joy in our lives, we reflect on the anticipation of Christ - who brings us joy. This space got me thinking - what am I doing each day to fill my soul with Christ-like joy? For me it starts in moments like this; reading, listening to worship, connecting with friends on this journey with me. But I think there’s more to it. It takes practice.
As we anticipate Christmas and what this means for us - we can prepare our hearts by intentionally engaging in the joy of the Lord. Practicing generosity, practicing kindness, practicing patience - ‘cause we all know we need extra doses of these at this time of year. When we practice these Christ-like characteristics our hearts are strengthened and filled with great joy.
May we be encouraged by the scriptures in Nehemiah - “for the joy of the Lord is your strength”.
REFLECTION QUESTION: Which characteristic of Jesus do you need to practice this festive season? Ask God to fill you with His strength to do this.
The thing about practicing is that we have to do the same thing over and over - we can’t just be kind once or have patience with that family member once - we practice daily so as to become more like Jesus.
“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4: 4-7.
REFLECTION QUESTION: As you read this verse above take a moment to think about these questions - what are you thankful for at this time of year? What you are worried about - tell God about it.
Finish your devotion today reading through Philippians 4 - rejoice in the great love God has for you. God sent Jesus to bring joy into your world (amidst the chaos), and this joy is a wonder-filled expression of His sacrificial, gracious and generous love.