Let me begin this week’s note with a prayer request. Our beloved director of music ministries, Scott Atchison, is set for heart bypass surgery later today. Scott went in for a stress test on Monday, had a heart catheterization on Tuesday, and it was determined he needed surgery today to alleviate several blockages. I invite you to pray for him and his doctors today. Pray that Scott will know God’s peace as he faces this surgery and a long rehab, and pray for his doctors that God’s healing touch might flow through their hands. Thank you for your concern and prayerful support.

We have gotten off to a great start to the new year here at Peachtree Road UMC. Last Sunday we heard the challenge of the prophet Isaiah in the form of two double imperatives: “Arise! Shine! Your light has come!” and “Lift up your eyes and see!” We begin our centennial year as a church, remembering that Christ’s light shines upon us, and our mission is to shine that light into the dark places of our world so all may experience the love, mercy, and grace of God. We closed worship by praying together the “Wesley Covenant Prayer” and then celebrating the Sacrament of Holy Communion. We made a good new beginning.

January is that unique month in which we look back upon the year that has just ended and look forward to a future that is unwritten. Let me suggest two exercises for this week. First, as you look back, write down three blessings for which you are grateful. Being thankful is the seed you plant when you want more joy in your life. Second, after listing your blessings, write down one thing you’re hoping for in the coming year. I want you to bring that hope with you to church this Sunday.

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas with loved ones. Let me begin this year-ending note with a word of appreciation to all who had a hand in making this year’s Christmas Eve celebration one to remember. It was exhilarating! Nearly 6,000 persons were present for one of our services in the sanctuary, and another 3,000 worshiped by livestream. I am grateful to the members of the Altar Guild and Flower Guild for all of their efforts to make our sanctuary the most beautiful room in Atlanta that night.

I don’t know about you, but I have found these days of Advent to be just what my soul has needed. On Sunday mornings we have focused upon the theme “Believe!” The Christmas angels have challenged all of us to believe just as they challenged Zechariah, Mary, and Joseph long ago. I don’t know about you, but I still am contemplating what it means to not let my fears prevent me from following God’s call in my life. Joseph is the prototype of a faithful follower and our guide.

I want to begin this week’s note by celebrating with you the impact of our outreach ministry Christmas Kindness. Over the course of the last week, over 400 volunteers from our church helped nearly 2,300 persons shop for new warm coats, small home appliances, and toys for their children. This ministry started 18 years ago, and I am grateful to Beth Spencer and her team, who worked to share the love of Christ in this special and holy season.

Last week we made a good start to the Advent season, and I am grateful to all who had a hand in decorating our sanctuary for the season. The Chrismon tree is absolutely beautiful, and I understand there are over 8,000 lights on it – one for every member of Peachtree Road UMC! A delighted gasp went up in the congregation on Sunday evening when the tree lights came on during the children’s music program. We’re off to a great start!