Advent Hope, Advent Growth, Advent Invitation

“I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6, NRSVue)

Advent is a season of holy anticipation. It’s a time when we look forward with hope, trusting that God is doing more among us than we can see. This past Sunday gave us a beautiful glimpse of that promise fulfilled right here in our congregation.

On a remarkable morning of worship, we celebrated four baptisms, welcomed 15 new members, and rejoiced as nine of our young people professed their faith for the first time. We also received three new full members by transfer and welcomed three baptized members who will join a Confirmation class when they are older. What a gift to witness so many signs of God’s grace, new life, and generational growth in our church family!

That spirit of joyful generosity carried on Sunday evening during our Children’s Christmas Program, where our children helped us raise over $1,000 for Embrace Alabama’s Kids (formerly the United Methodist Children’s Home). In a season that celebrates God’s generosity to the world in Christ, our children led us in giving generously to children in need. Our children also did a fantastic job sharing the true story of Christmas!

We continue to support our community through the Shoals Community Soup Kitchen and the Help Center, both of which are seeing a large increase in neighbors seeking food assistance. Your donations are truly making a difference for families right here in the Shoals during this challenging season.

As Advent reminds us, growth is always a blessing and an invitation. Our congregation is becoming younger and more diverse in age, which is a strong sign of vitality. One aspect of that growth, however, is that pledges are less common among younger generations, even though they are deeply committed to the life of the church.

As of today, our 2026 General Fund pledges are roughly $100,000 short of what we raised at the end of the 2025 campaign. We anticipate more pledges to come in before the year ends, but for now, this calls us to prayerful reflection.

Pledges are more than just budget tools; they are spiritual commitments. They guide us to plan wisely as we face rising costs and expanded ministries needed to serve a growing church and a hurting world. Even more, they help us listen to God’s call on our lives: “Lord, how are You inviting me to participate in the ministry of Your church this year?”

As we approach Christmas, I can’t help but feel a deep confidence in the work God is doing among us. This is a season of holy momentum. God is moving. And because God is moving, we are called to move with Him—to give, to serve, to grow, and to support the mission of this church we love.

So, as we enter the last days of Advent, I invite you to join me in prayer, asking:

Lord, how can I respond to Your generosity with my own?

How can my giving help our church confidently pursue the ministry You are leading us toward?

Together, as a community driven by hope, we will step confidently into the year ahead, trusting that the God who started a good work among us will see it through with grace and power.

Advent blessings to you and your family. May Christ’s coming fill your heart with hope, peace, joy, and love. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday!