Happenings at Paxton United Methodist Church, Dec 28th

December 28, 2015 - Sunday was the First Sunday after Christmas. Traditionally this Sunday is about the childhood and family of Jesus. There are only three episodes dealing with the childhood of Jesus: His parents presented him as an infant at the Temple ; the wise men came to see this Jesus; the third is the one that serves as today’s Gospel. Jesus is around twelve or thirteen, making a pilgrimage to Jerusalem with his family. I sure wish there was more about the young Jesus. Some historians have studied about life in rural Palestine during the time Jesus lived, trying to piece together a likely scenario of what Jesus’ life would have been like. I really enjoy reading these “biographies” but also realize most is just conjecture. In these stories, though, we see hope and also a parent’s loving care.

Fannie had a real good lesson at Sunday School. The lesson came from Matthew and Mark and dealt with many issues in Jesus’ day. The hero for the lessons was an unnamed widow who gave two small copper coins at the Temple . Jesus was very critical of those who operated the Temple and those with so much who wanted to be recognized for all that they did. Jesus reminds us that in his Kingdom the low will be lifted up and those with so much will be brought low.

We had a great crowd Sunday. One must realize that the word “crowd” means different things for different churches. We were in double digits, always a pleasure at Paxton. It is so wonderful to have an infant that comes regularly with her mom. We love Evie and Liz. Evie is so alert, taking in what is going on. And so cute besides!

I hope that everyone’s Christmas was blessed. In talking to folks Sunday morning, it seems that they all had a nice Christmas. We made a trip to Monroe to see Sue’s aunt and uncle. Sue’s mom went with us and had a good time reminiscing with her brother and sister-in-law. Our two kids came in Christmas Eve, and we had a really nice couple of days. It is one of the very few times that we have had Christmas in Joaquin. When our kids were young, we bundled everyone and everything in the car and went to one of the grandparents’ homes. This year, then, was lower-key and peaceful.

We have three birthdays coming up. We send out Happy Birthday wishes to Bill Thompson, Jake Watson, and Steven Joe Watson. In January we will be collecting cans of tuna for area food pantries. We have three ministry opportunities this month. On Monday, January 4, we will visit Green Acres starting at 2:00. On Tuesday, January 19 at 2:00, we will visit Holiday . On Thursday January 28th we will visit Lakeside Assisted Living. All are welcome to join us.

“Whoever you are, in whatever faith you were born, whatever creed you profess; if you come to this house to find God you are welcome here.” Paxton United Methodist Church is an inviting church that takes to heart the idea of “Open Doors, Open Hearts, Open Minds.” Sunday School starts at 9:15 and Worship begins at 10:00. Our email address is paxtonumc@yahoo.com. If you would like the weekly email newsletter about Paxton Methodist you can send me your email address to the Paxton email address and I will add you to the list. God’s Speed!