Matthew 24:36-44

​Thoughts:         Author Jean Kerr wrote that it happened every autumn when she was happily shopping in a department store.  Suddenly, she would see signs announcing Christmas lay-aways, Christmas sales.  Counters were heaped with Christmas tree decorations.  Wreaths covered store walls, and pillars were wrapped in red and green garlands.  Christmas music blared over the loudspeakers. 
 
With trembling hands, Jean would replace the bath towels she was considering.  “Christmas is almost here,” she would sob, “and I am not ready!”
 
Discussion:      How do you get ready for Christmas?
 
Activity:            “Angels and archangels must have gathered there.
                             Songs of alleluia filled the air.
                             But his mother Mary, in her maiden bliss,
                             Worshiped the Beloved with a kiss.”
                                                                                      -Rosetti
 
                             “Be ye also ready” to share Christmas love.

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Remember in prayer this week Karen Belt, Vivian Hansard, Mary Jo Johnston, Mildred Parker, and Doug Smith.
 
Tonight is the Troy Clergy Thanksgiving service with ten churches and choirs at 7:00pm.  Please join us and bring a friend.
 
Sunday is the First Sunday of Advent where children and adults will receive an Advent devotional.  It’s also United Methodist Student Sunday. Special envelopes are in the pew pads.  There are also Christmas offering envelopes and pledge cards in case you need one in the pew pads. 
 
This Sunday in the Christian Life Center, you may order a poinsettia to decorate our sanctuary, sign up to bring your crèche for display, sign up for the Christmas Tea, sign up to bake cookies for the cookie walk, and even have your blood pressure checked.
 
HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL!