Hey Friends,

Can you feel it? Our culture is closing down for about a week. Tomorrow is Christmas Eve and we are still running at a frantic pace to get IT done! By tomorrow evening it will come to a quick close. For most of us, life will slow down for the next week or so. EXHALE, chill out, take it easy and “Be still and know that I am God.”

So my question for you is, “How will you spend your free time?” We all have 24 hours a day we get to spend. But this next week or so, at least until January 2, what will you do? Watch movies, eat, celebrate with family and friends, travel to cool places or make your rounds to all the different family members? How will you spend these days? They will be over before you know it, 2010 will be here, and the rat race will be back on!

How will you spend your time? Let me encourage you to carve out time for Christ. As we celebrate His ADVENT – the God invasion and incarnation – draw away some for the Savior who is the King of Christmas! As you do, let me give you some suggestions about a few things to consider with Christ:

1. Have private worship time and express gratitude for your salvation.

2. Make a “Thank You, Jesus” list from this year.

3. Pray about your goals and plans for the new decade. Review your plan for 2009 and see how you did.

4. Create your personal growth plan for the new year.

5.  List your dreams and those of your family.

6. Determine to work toward your dreams and be a dream manager for your friends and family.

7. Think about the new decade and how you will serve the Savior.

8. Meditate on the future and let the Spirit speak to you, impact your vision and tamper with your dream world.

9. Prepare yourself for the best year you have ever experienced!

There are many more things you could do in worship and celebration for the season. Make your own list. Create ways for your family to worship or talk about Jesus. Remember this is not about Santa; it is about the Savior!

Your checkbook is out and open and you are writing the checks as you spend the time. Spend wisely!

Happy Jesus’ Birthday!

Pastor