At least someone else is teaching my class right now on an Evangelism series. Yesterday's lesson was an emphasis that the LAW points out our need for GRACE. We don't know that we have sinned until we understand that we have transgressed God's LAW.
And, I appreciate Pastor Terry's sermon yesterday, a reminder that the theme of Christmas, and the whole Bible really, is SALVATION. It is interesting that Isaiah 49:6b "I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth"; shows that in Acts, when we are called to be HIS witnesses to the ends of the earth; this was God's plan of salvation from the beginning. The Pastor challenged us to read through the Book of Luke during this Christmas Season.
At the Women's Event, it turned out that the speaker, Danna Demetre, had a remote that worked to click through her presentation; so, I didn't have to do anything. But, they still gave me a nice "Thank You" gift of chocolates with Bible verses stuck to them, in a decorated glass jar with a candle holder topper. Add to that, my name was also drawn in the raffle and I received an angel ornament. I've been telling people that this was, in my friend's words, "a hug from God." I guess He knew I needed it. And what stood out most in the speaker's message was the reminder that "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." (James 1:17) Just as Jesus came at Christmas in the form of a Baby in the manger, God's gifts often do come in unexpected "wrapping". Nevertheless, all His gifts are GOOD and PERFECT. The speaker also talked about rubber balls (things that keep us busy) vs glass balls (things that are essential, related to our minds, bodies, and relationships). In the midst of the busyness, it is important to focus on the priorities, as illustrated by the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42.
My other friend's Christmas CD came out; and the cover was decorated by artwork from another friend. It's beautiful and sounds great; and will be a good Christmas gift this year.
After going to the worship meeting yesterday in preparation for Christmas; I've decided that I may take a break from running the projector this year for Christmas Eve and Christmas. Unless they end up really needing someone, I do not plan on volunteering.
One thing I do want to note, is that in preparing non-solid foods for my mom; I've been experimenting with various "recipes". I've made a variety of turkey, chicken, ham, and beef broth with different kinds of herbs, spices, and vegetables. I've made pea soup and many different forms of potato-based soups (modified beef stew, potato-spinach, potato-garlic,etc). Basically, I make the stock, drain the broth and then cook it with cubed potatoes (and spinach or garlic) till soft, and then puree. I've also made oatmeal with fruits (banana, applesauce, etc) as well as with broth (it comes out tasting a lot like porridge). Also, I've made Asian style soups (broth with egg-drop or extra soft tofu). I'm considering doing a liquid diet myself; since lately, these have actually been more tasty and appealing than solid foods sometimes.
I will make more of an effort to stop and reflect on Christmas; and will take up the challenge to read through Luke (which will be interesting, after having finished Acts, as Book II of Luke). And, I actually already have my area of focus for next year: PRAYER. I know that I need to have a stronger prayer life and to be able to be more articulate and comfortable in my ability to pray in corporate settings. And, I have the Early Church believers to serve as examples of prayer.
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