December 2024 Revealing Light Newsletter

In the midst of all the presents being shared -- the gifts, being present with each other, the present season where family get-togethers look different, God is still present. While this can be a full season with schedules, families, shopping, meals, etc… remember that God is present even in the midst of the “full” season. It’s not that we have to try to find a spot to squeeze God into our lives because He’s already present. But, it may mean taking the time to remember His presence with us. We are reminded of this through Jesus Christ, who was also named Immanuel - “God with us”. The Magi/Wise Men of the east travelled over 700 miles to come pay homage to this King who was born, by being present with this young child and to bring presents of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These were fairly common yet highly valued gifts for royalty. But these magi remind us to be present with our present God, presenting the presents we can to praise our God who is present with us (who knew “presents” could hold so many meanings). Which presents/presence are you bringing to our King of all kings?
- Daryl Struemph

Matthew 2:1–2, 10-11 (ESV)
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”...
...When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.

Over the past two years, we’ve been posting all of our Revealing Light newsletters to our website and are taking the next step to fully move our newsletters (starting 2025) to the digital medium to reach people who are living outside of our Eugene mailing route. This will allow members who live outside of Eugene and additional community members to continue to stay connected and informed without the limits of where you all live. You are able to “subscribe” to these monthly newsletters still which you will receive by email as the full newsletter is posted on our website. If you would like to still receive a printout of our newsletter by mail, you can request these by calling us at 573-533-0624.
- Daryl Struemph

We are so thankful for everyone who donated food, prepared meals and decorations, helped out, showed up, and enjoyed the time to visit! There were 250+ meals that were served either at the hall, through carry-outs, or through deliveries! We love getting to serve this community with this meal as we continue to thank God for what He has given to us through His Son, Jesus Christ. Thank you for joining us each year to enjoy this meal together in fellowship.