One of our church’s most cherished traditions is our annual Advent Devotional. This year’s series is inspired by Ruth L. Boling’s book Season’s Greetings, in which she imagines what it would be like if those who witnessed or prophesied about Jesus’ birth wrote letters to the church today.
Throughout the Advent Season, you'll receive a daily email with a message from a member of the WPC community responding to a prompt or question. Some are serious and some are silly. They're all intended to prepare us for the celebration of Christmas.
As we anticipate the celebration of Christmas (and Jesus’ second coming), we’re invited to wait with hope, peace, joy, and love. May these daily reflections draw you deeper into the story of Christ and prepare your heart to welcome Him again and again.
Prompt: Share about a memorable Christmas card (one you received or one you sent).
A few days after Christmas last year, my parents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. They said they didn’t want a big party…just a nice dinner out with their kids, grandkids, and a few close friends. Oh…and my mom mentioned she would LOVE if we could schedule some time with a photographer for new family portraits.
My sister scheduled the photographer, one of the nieces started a text thread to coordinate outfits (which meant shopping for pants for the grandson who only wears shorts and sweatpants), and we agreed on a location. On the day of the anniversary, the weather showed up how it’s supposed to in Southern California. It was a perfect afternoon, followed by a beautiful evening and tasty dinner.
A month or so later, we got the photos. Mom was thrilled. In some form or another, the photos are displayed in each of our homes. Mom was also excited to share the photos with friends as well, and one of the best ways to do that is through the family holiday card.
A couple of weeks ago, I messaged our family text thread to brag that I — the little brother and youngest child — had ordered Christmas cards before anyone else. Mom replied that she’d ordered hers too, and it quickly became a race to see whose would arrive first. They showed up within hours of each other…except Mom’s had one little problem: she forgot to change the family name, Howard, from the “stock” name on the card design!
Sometimes things turn out the way they’re supposed to…like memorable evenings celebrating important milestones. Other times, they don’t, and we’re left with a good laugh and a story to share. May we welcome the surprises of the season.
Give Financially - You may give during the service on Sunday, use one of the QR codes above, give online here, or mail a check to the church office: 32111 Watergate Road, Westlake Village, CA 91361.
Contact the church staff with questions or concerns: info1@wpcwestlake.org or call 818.889.1491
