Advent 2019: December 6, 2019

This past Sunday was my youngest daughter’s 21 ^st birthday. While it is generally poor form to text during the service, I couldn’t help myself but to let her know that her favorite verses were the New Testament reading.  I think it was worth it and if I get called out, I’ll argue that we were connecting to Jesus’ pathway of Joy and Life!

I loved her response, “I wish I was there”. Well, of course I did too. I was so looking forward to seeing her in just a few days for Thanksgiving Break and to celebrate her birthday. So, all kinds of things go through my mind. Waiting and the anticipation of my family being together – nothing better. But while we wait, Dave and I are getting ready: cleaning up rooms, planning special meals, going to the store, planning activities we will enjoy doing together while fitting around their schedules.   How many of us are that intentional about planning and getting ready for Christ or identifying and naming God’s action around us? I know I’m not.

That brings me to my second thought. My deep gratitude for all of you. My daughter has a favorite verse! She wished she was here – – with you! I am so very aware of how so many people here at COS have been a part of building her faith, the opportunities she had to grow into leadership, the service opportunities to grow a heart for God and for people.  I see God’s action through you in being a loving, encouraging community of faith for my children. I hope every child and youth can feel that connection here.  Let’s work together to make that a reality!

Your partner in ministry,

Ellen Pfundt

Director of Children and Family Ministry