Everyone I know has something to say about the time leading up to Christmas. I have heard people say that this season involves too much busyness, too much fatigue, too much pressure, too much eating, drinking, baking, and buying. With all the hopes, expectations, traditions, obligations, dreams and fantasies that surround Christmas, it is easy to see why this time seems to be reduced to too much of almost everything.

I invite you to lay down and lay aside these experiences for the moment. This worship is an opportunity to let go of your harried rushing and relax in the presence of God and loved ones and, for a time, receive a gift instead of trying to give one. We hope this gift will help to transform the rest of your activities so that they will take on some of the qualities of the sac…