Dear People of God at Harwich UMC,

As the days are shorter and shorter, our neighborhoods are made beautiful by many lights: Christmas lights on trees inside and out.  Yard decorations like Nativities and reindeer are adorned with lights.

Light dispels the darkness of our fears and brings into view new possibilities.  As a music teacher in the public sector I remember with mixed feelings the “Christmas Concert” changed to a “Winter Concert” as we tried to be more inclusive.  We took away the great contributions of musicians who wrote of the GOOD NEWS: That, God so loved the world that God sent the One and only Son that the World Might be Saved! [John 3:16]

Jesus was always more inclusive as he interpreted the scriptures.  Jesus made sure that people were not ostracized, he made it possible for the Lepers to go home, the women to be respected and the beggars to be healed of the afflictions that left them no hope but the generosity of the fortunate.

In our journey toward Bethlehem may your way be lit with the glorious radiance of Our Saviour Christ Jesus and may each of us Shine in a needy world.

Blessings,

Pastor Dianne