MESSAGE. Many have been wounded by the words and deeds of others in this cruel world. Many feel rejected and dejected. Many have been broken by adversity, affliction, and loss. Many carry great burdens borne as a result of past bad decisions. For all these things and more, Jesus came into this world as the great Healer. Shining brightly, Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 147:3, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Let this healing light of our Saviour shine in your life as we celebrate the birth of Jesus!
Church choir and Brass for Worship will lead us into the festive atmosphere of this season. Both of our services this Sabbath will be held in the Fellowship hall. Unfortunately the platform in the Sanctuary does not have enough room for both the choir and band.
I will continue my December sermon series, “O Light Divine.” Malachi 4:2 “But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves.” (NIV)
MINISTRY. The church Christmas social is now moved to December 17th. Tomorrow afternoon we will gather at 4 pm for the Memorial service to celebrate Rick Marshall’s life. After the service everyone is invited to stay for the reception. The family is requesting donations to the WORTHY STUDENT FUND in liue of flowers. This has been a tough few days for OAKS students, staff, and our church family. Rick’s sudden death left a hole in our community. I am grateful to OAKS staff and teachers and to pastor Aubrey for doing everything in their power to bring comfort to the students. Thank you also Nancy and Lupina for mobilizing your team for the reception arrangements. Thank you, Steve Bremner, for working many extra hours as we deal with two memorial services in one week.
Pathfinders. A couple of hours ago I walked into Cory’s Sabbath school class and was moved to tears watching Cory and Amy prepare containers for children living in the refugee camp in Chattanooga. The Pathfinders will visit the camp this coming Sunday. What a great way to help those unfortunate children see what Christmas is really all about.
LEWIS AND VLAD. A few hours ago I received a text message from Vlad. It made me feel very nostalgic. He sent a message from Ukraine reporting his safe arrival. Thank you, Vlad, for the great time we had together. Let the Lord continue to bless you in your ministry in Ukraine. Last week’s farewell social was absolutely awesome! Thank you, Avril and your team for your hard work.
SPECIAL CHRISTMAS OFFERING. Thank you for your support of the Josiah Restoration fund. Your donations are already at work. In the next few weeks the Music room will be completely renovated, the AC air ducts will be professionally cleaned, the ceiling tiles replaced, etc. Our goal is to raise $50,000. Please, mark your special Christmas donations on the tithe envelopes as Josiah Restoration.
PRAYERS. I invite you to pray for the Marshall family, who lost their husband and father.
For Opel Vega, who had surgery a couple of days ago and is now recovering at home.
For Dorothy Champion, who is still at Ooltewah Lifecare in recovery after back surgery.
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With Christian love,
Peter
Ooltewah Seventh-day Adventist Church 