What is Advent? 
The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival." The focus of the Season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent. In this double focus on past and future, Advent also symbolizes the spiritual journey of individuals and a congregation, as they affirm that:




1. Christ has come.
2. He is present in the world today.
3. He will come again in power. 

We offer the opportunity for families and individuals of all ages to join together with one another and God as we celebrate, anticipate, rejoice, and relax in the Good News.


Resources:
Click to Download: 
1. A Once a Week Advent Plan for Everyone (long & short versions)
2. 30 Day Advent Plan for Families (2013 Version) Updated version Here for $5. 
3. Other Family Resources Here. 


Sincerely,
 
Patrick Luse
National Park Church

   I often have families ask for ideas of how they could serve others during the holidays.  Most of the time, it comes from a place of truly wanting to serve and share the Way of Jesus with others. Sometimes, however, I can hear in their voice and comments something else. I hear guilt. "Why are we so blessed....?"  I've even seen families get into arguments over how many gifts were given or how much food was prepared. 

"God never blesses us to induce guilt."  God always gives, whether little or much, because He loves. We want others to know they are loved too. That's why we share.  We must share what is on our plates from that point of view. 

   As you feast this week or any day of the year, please remember that Family, Celebrating, & Feasting are all part of God's Mission. Therefore, they are missional(joining God) and lead us to be filled to serving others. May your cup, plate, and hearts overflow this week. When they do, here are some suggestions on how you might use the Overflow. 

Missional Thanksgiving Ideas

1. Make plates of food and share with shut-ins or those in assisted living. (Many never have a single visitor all year long.)
2. Flag football or wiffle ball tournament with your neighbors and their families. Share hot chocolate and prayers. 
3. Join area churches in making back packs of blessing for the homeless. (Non perishables, socks, personal grooming, etc. List of Supplies (HERE)
4. If you are going to Black Friday shop...pick an angel tree name or other child in need and shop for them as well. 
5. Make a family Christmas card video. Upload to YouTube or Facebook, sharing a message of hope for the community and inviting others to a Christmas Eve service or regular event. 
6. Ask the kids of your family. They always have great ideas of how to help others. 
7. Prayer walk. Spend time walking around your neighborhood, the mall, a park, or downtown praying for every person or house you see. Walk off that extra turkey and stuffing too.  ; )

Happy Thanksgiving, 

Patrick Luse