One by one, I anticipated and waited for their arrival - my parents, my sister, my son, my daughter and son-in-law, my three grandchildren, my brother and sister-in-law.  We were going to be together today to enjoy a meal together and more importantly - each others presence.   These individuals (and others, that couldn’t be with us this day) not only came and occupied space in my home, but they occupy space in my life and my heart.  My life is better because of them. During this “busy” time of the holidays we need to be reminded that the people in our lives is what matters.  And as we prepare and shop and anticipate getting together once again soon for Christmas, we must be reminded that the most important arrival of all is that of Christ coming into our world - “And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:7)  The presence of Christ in our lives in the single most important relationship.  Jesus is to have preeminence (superiority, importance) in our church, our family and our individual lives.  If we are not careful, the “business” of life will crowd Jesus - “the bread of life” - right out of our lives.  Let us continue to prepare and make “more” room for Jesus in our lives.  May His presence occupy every aspect of our being and lives!

In His Service,

Pastor Rodney