Good morning everyone;

Joy to the world, the Lord is come.  Let Earth receive her King.  These are great words that announce the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  It was great as we gathered on Sunday to worship the newborn King – Jesus Christ – our Redeemer, Savior, and Friend.  The weather held off on this weekend and we were able to celebrate.   Thanks to the worship team – you did a great job as you led us in worship.  Also thanks to Pierce for helping me out with some of the other worship leading tasks.  It was good to preach this past Sunday and I really enjoyed it.  Many of you spoke kind words regarding the sermon.  It’s a message that we need to make known to the world and Jesus has commanded us to go into all the world and make disciples and teach them the things of God, because He is coming back again and we need to be ready and make sure others are ready.

By now you realize that Pastor Barry is not writing this today.  Since he was away this last Sunday he asked me if I would write this week’s edition of Tuesday on the Run.  I want to share with you an email that I received several years ago from a friend.  You may have seen it as well, but it bears repeating:

You are cordially invited to A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!!!

Guest of Honor: Jesus Christ

Date: Every day. Traditionally, December 25 but He's always around, so the date is flexible....

Time: Whenever you're ready. (Please don't be late, though, or you'll miss out on all the fun!)

Place: In your heart.... He'll meet you there. (You'll hear Him knock.)

Attire: Come as you are... grubbies are okay. He'll be washing our clothes anyway. He said something about new white robes and crowns for everyone who stays till the last.

Tickets: Admission is free.  He's already paid for everyone...  (He says you wouldn't have been able to afford it anyway...it cost Him everything He had. But you do need to accept the ticket!!)

Refreshments: New wine, bread, and a far-out drink He calls "Living Water," followed by a supper that promises to be out of this world!

Gift Suggestions: Your life. He's one of those people who already has everything else. (He's very generous in return though. Just wait until you see what He has for you!)

Entertainment: Joy, Peace, Truth, Light, Life, Love, Real Happiness, Communion with God, Forgiveness, Miracles, Healing, Power, Eternity in Paradise, Contentment, and much more! (All "G" rated, so bring your family and friends.)

R.S.V.P. - Very Important!  He must know ahead so He can reserve a spot for you at the table.

Also, He's keeping a list of His friends for future reference. He calls it the "Lamb's Book of Life." We hope to see you there!

Each one of us has been called to share the Good News with those who are around us – go ahead and spread it around.  The world could really use some Good News.

This week Wednesday night returns to its normal schedule.  Pastor Barry will continue his study in Proverbs and Student Ministries is back to its regular schedule as well.

I am looking forward to our next sermon series that begins this Sunday, January 3.  It is called “Listen Up, Church!”  Did you ever wonder what God would say to the church today?  We are going to explore the seven churches of Revelation and discover how that applies to us today.  Pastor Barry and I encourage you to join us for this great series.

Let me take this time to express our thanks and gratitude for the wonderful Christmas gifts our family received from the Parkway family.  Thank you so much for your love and thoughtfulness.  Pam and I love you all.  I’m sure I speak for Pastor Barry and Rosemary as well.  My prayer is that you have a great week – God bless each one of you and Seize the Day!

Happy New Year!

Pastor Dale