"How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!" Romans 10:15
A few weeks ago, my grandchildren used their own money to purchase three walkie talkies - one for each of them, and one for my husband, who is affectionately known to them as their “Papa”. Recognized as a great playmate, the children knew that these walkie talkies had significant potential to be a lot of fun, especially when they play “hide and seek” around the house with Papa. However, living across the street from each other, there was tremendous joy last Sunday when the children discovered that if each of them was in their own bedroom, the range of these walkie talkies was strong enough to talk with Papa, even when he was in our house! As a result, Ken frequently gets phone calls from the kids each night that state, “Papa, can you please turn on your walkie talkie? I have something very important to tell you!”
Similarly, as we approach Thanksgiving, as well as the start of the church season of Advent, I have some very important things that I want to tell all of you (and it will not require you turning on a Walkie Talkie!).
1. Last week was our 14th Annual Turkey Trot. Our students did an amazing job allowing the Lord to use their feet to help others! As a result of their efforts and everyone's generosity, our students raised $12,400, which translates into 248 children/adults receiving a $50 gift card for Christmas! We thank and praise God for His hand of blessing in this endeavor! In addition, as we prepare to send these gift cards to the LCMS Florida and Southeast districts, we pray for those who will be receiving these gifts cards as well.
2. The church season of "Advent" begins on Sunday, December 1st. During the season of Advent, Christians use this time to focus and prepare our hearts for the celebration of Jesus' birth. As a tool to help enhance each student's personal "God time" at home during this Advent season, your child will bring home an Advent devotional booklet today. Please help your child determine the best time to read each daily devotional. For some families, after dinner works well. For others, it may be best to read each devotional before bedtime. Some children are early risers and prefer to start their day with a devotional. Whatever time works best for you, we pray that these tools will help keep the focus on Jesus this Advent season.
3. One of my absolute FAVORITE Advent activities that St. Matthew offers to families is "Pancakes with Pastor"! This family event will occur on Saturday, December 7th, at 9:00 a.m. The morning will start with a delicious pancake breakfast, courtesy of the Kosky Life Group and Mr. Nichols. Families will then spend the rest of the morning creating, laughing, and focusing on the true meaning of Christmas. It is our hope and prayer that you will be able to join us. To sign up, please use the link in the School Newsletter.
4. Our students are also scheduled to lead us in various worship services. Please let grandparents and friends know of the following services:
Friday, December 13th Preschool/Kindergarten Christmas program. This endearing event will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the church; however, to accommodate a few other events that are taking place that weekend, we ask that families please do not arrive until 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, December 18th
Special Guest Coffee Hour from 8:00 - 9:20 a.m. in the lobby
Grades 1 - 4 Christmas Services 9:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
God is so incredibly good, and we are extremely thankful for each of you!
God's richest blessings on your Thanksgiving celebrations!
In Jesus' Love,
Mrs. Palka