We will have no services on Christmas Sunday. Enjoy celebrating the Sabbath and the birth of Jesus at home.
Letter from Jared:
Christmas is, of course, when we retell the story of the miraculous birth of Jesus, God who came to live with us, and remember its significance for our lives. On Sundays, we gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus on the first day of the week and devote ourselves to the Risen King. This year, as Christmas falls on a Sunday, we have a unique opportunity to be mindful of the two miraculous cornerstones of our faith—the birth and resurrection of Jesus.
Every year, BridgePointe hosts special Christmas services during the week leading up to Christmas. Staff and volunteers invest much time, energy, and effort into these services so the church family can celebrate the birth of Jesus together and share the hope of Jesus with our community. It is our practice to hold no services on the following Sunday to give staff, volunteers, and the church a day of rest. This year, this Sabbath Sunday falls on Christmas Day so there will be no BridgePointe services on December 25.
We invite you to join the church in this rhythm of Sabbath on one of the most special days of the year.
On this Christmas Sunday, we hope you’ll be mindful of the miraculous birth and resurrection of Jesus. Whenever we teach on Sabbath, we encourage people to incorporate four simple elements into their day. Here is a brief description of how you can be intentional with your Christmas Day so that it draws you closer to Jesus, whom this is all about:
1. Stop
Sabbath gives us a break from work. It might be easier than usual to step away from your job, which makes this day a blessing. And it might be harder than usual to stop the household work of cooking, hosting, and cleaning which is ok, too. Make it your goal, however, to find time to slow down and stop. Take a breath and use that time to be mindful of the blessings of God that surround you.
2. Rest
Sabbath replenishes your heart, mind, body, and soul. So while this day may include some chaos related to travel, hospitality, or family, be sure to do what gives you life. Maybe for you this is taking a walk… or a nap, playing a game… or reading a book, spending time with loved ones… or getting some time alone. Be mindful of what you need and take a little time to get that this day.
3. Delight
Sabbath draws our attention to the good and beautiful things in our lives. This should hopefully feel natural on Christmas. Look around the room and delight in the people you’re with. Find great joy in giving and receiving gifts. Enjoy great food and drinks. Laugh at good stories. And celebrate the best thing of all—Jesus, God with us.
4. Worship
Sabbath leads us to worship God, who is the one who keeps His promises and gives good gifts. Make sure that this day of stopping, resting, and delighting also includes worship to God. Be grateful to Him for all the good things He has done. Read the Christmas story (Luke 2:1-20!) to begin your day. Light a candle at your table to remember that Jesus is the light of the world. Sing a few carols together. Whisper prayers of gratitude to God. However you do it, choose to worship Jesus who was born from heaven and raised from the dead!
We will miss being together as a church family on Christmas Sunday. We hope you will join with others in worshipping Jesus throughout this special day, whever you will be. And we look forward to being together again in the New Year.