verywhere you look people are gearing up for the holidays. Massive sales are happening in stores while early bird shoppers leave home in the dark to go cash in. The search is on for the perfect gift at the perfect price. Much of our energy is fueled by the promises in the advertisements. We are also powered by the promise of smiles from those we cherish when they open those perfect gifts. Promises of acceptance and appreciation lead us to do many things in life. We accept and choose to follow Christ because of the promise of eternal life and acceptance into God's presence.

In our study time at Hillside Christian last Sunday morning we began to examine the promises or prophecies God made about His work in restoring mankind to Himself through the Savior. God began mentioning parts of His plan soon after man sinned and was separated from Him. The theme of restoration permeates Old Testament scripture and leads to the birth of Jesus in the gospels. God made promises and kept everyone of them. We read from the prophet Isaiah some of the names for and attributes of the coming Savior. Jesus fulfilled them all completely. Jesus made several promises about Himself and His ministry that He carried out during his life. God, by His nature, is faithful and trustworthy in all things. His ability to make promises and keep them is greater than our doubt or indifference. Our God is able and we should be like Him.

As God has blessed us with growth we are meeting the challenge by raising funds to add more educational floor space and room for increased youth activities. We praise Him for this opportunity. The fundraising is going well and we anticipate beginning construction as God provides.

We are looking forward to Hillside's Christmas program on December 15th. A varied group of singers, actors, and support staff of all ages will present "The Stranger in the Manger" at the church. Weeks of preparation will result in a fresh presentation of Jesus' birth. The power demonstrated in this single act and its circumstances has forever changed the world and eternity. Everyone is encouraged to attend and be strengthened by this timeless beginning of the life of Christ. Jesus is the greatest example ever of a promise kept.

Hillside will be caroling again this year the evening of the 18th. Chili and snacks will be provided afterward for those who participate. If you know of someone who would be blessed by a brief visit that evening let us know at the church. The number there is 859-6072.

Our congregation is participating in the "Share Your Christmas" program again this year as well as several other activities that express the love of Christ to those who really need it. If you aren't connected with a church you are invited to join us as we try to fill some needs in the community. You may also want to contact the local organizations that are hard pressed this time of year to fill all the requests that come their way during the holidays. Let's all help keep the promise of peace on earth and show good will toward all people in God's name.