We gathered on Christmas morning at Mill Creek Baptist Church to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Mitchell Lett, Abby Jeffries and Steve Mason were celebrating birthdays and Rick and Terry Lett were celebrating their anniversary. Special prayers were requested for Nyla Grisson, Vernie Cook, Gerall Law, Sheri White's father, Jullian, the Jack Hill family and the Letts family.
Brother Mark will host the widow's luncheon Jan. 8 after the morning worship service.
We had a wonderful Christmas program Wednesday night directed by Terry Lett as the children's version of the Christmas Story was told by Brother Mark Hall with help from the cast members: shepherds Jimmy Easter and Steve Mason; wisemen Wayne Holly, Don Chaney and Jerry Abercrombie; and Mary and Joseph, portrayed by Renae and Aaron Sherman. We enjoyed Christmas goodies after the production.
Linda Abercrombie gave the devotional, "The Greatest Surprise," and read Luke 2:9-10. When we deal with trials and tribulations in life, we can feel God's presence if we will let him in our hearts and life.
During this time of year we see the glitter of the season, but sometimes miss the glory of the season. We are loved and cherished by the most important person. We need to celebrate all that God does for us and ask for His grace throughout the coming year.
We joined voices in singing Christmas hymns and were blessed with special songs from Jerry Abercrombie who sang "There's A New Kid In Town" and Karen Gardner who sang "Silent Night." Tyrel Lett asked God's blessing upon the offering and he and Rick Lett served as ushers.
The text for Brother Mark's message was from John 1:1-14, which tells us about the beginning of creation according to John.
Brother Mark told us, "Jesus left Heaven to come and die for us and our sins. Can we really comprehend that kind of unconditional love? Jesus died for us, but he also still loves us and wants us back when we walk away from Him. He forgives us for veering away from him in our walk in life. We need to learn to love like Jesus with everyone."
Brother Mark talked about the Christmas stories in Matthew and Luke.
He also told us about a little Indian Christmas where winter time is story time. He talked about how the Indians told the Christmas story in their version. Even though it was in their words, it was still the same story about Jesus being born in Bethlehem.
Brother Mark asked, "Are we still telling the story of Jesus to others? Do you know the story? We should be able to tell the story from beginning to end."
Brother Mark began the story of the birth of Christ, and then members of the congregation took turns finishing the story.
"We should be able to tell the story to our grandchildren and others. The world needs to hear the story. Take time to read it and tell it."
Our hymn of invitation was "Away In A Manger," and Wayne Holly gave the benediction.
Mill Creek Baptist church wishes you a Merry Christmas. May the joy and peace of the Christmas season remain in your heart throughout the year.
We invite you to begin 2017 in church and worship with us. Mill Creek is located 3.5 miles east of Noel, just off Highway 90. Everyone is welcome.
Religion on 12/29/2016