The second Sunday in Advent has come and gone. We have lit two candles– for hope and for peace. Two Sundays have passed in Advent and this means that there are two more! Our countdown to Bethlehem is continuing. Counting the weeks helps us in our spiritual preparations as well as giving us simple reminders about how close we are coming to Christmas and our celebration of the birth of the Christ Child. How are you coming with your preparation? Most of the folks I have spoken to have gotten their trees up. Many are almost finished with their shopping. We are almost 1/2 through with our parties and other celebrations for the year. But how are you coming with your spiritual preparations? Have you taken a little time to prayerfully examine your life and see where God might be calling for some changes? This morning we read the words of John the Baptist concerning preparation for the One who is to come. We were reminded of the importance of preparation that includes coming face to face with the things that separate us from God and from each other. When we see them we can ask God to help us with them. God knows who we are and where we need to grow, and as he makes us aware, he also helps us in the process of growth and change.

2 candles have been lit. Join us Sunday when we light the 3rd candle, the Candle of Joy, next week!

Gene Feagin, Pastor