Posts from December 2024
December 31, 2024 – Weekly News
Download the PDF here Dec. 31, 2024 Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. — John 14:27 (NIV)As the Christmas festivities come to an end and the twinkling lights begin to fade, find a peaceful space to unwind and contemplate the lessons learned and the blessings received during this special time. Feel yourself relax and…
December 30, 2024
HAPPY NEW YEAR, Graceview Family!As we step into 2025, we are invited not only to chart new paths forward but alsoto engage in deeper reflection—on who we are, why we are here, and what ittruly means to walk with God. This past month, I had the opportunity to read Dr. Jordan Peterson’s We WhoWrestle With God, a profound exploration of faith, humanity, and the eternalquestions that challenge us all. Peterson draws from the Biblical story of Jacobwrestling with God—a powerful…
December 24, 2024 – Weekly News
Download the PDF here Dec. 24, 2024The fifth candle of Advent, also known as the Christ candle, is a white candle that is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to represent the birth of Jesus. It is usually placed in the center of the Advent wreath and is larger than the other candles. The Christ candle symbolizes the light and purity of Jesus Christ, and represents the hope, peace, joy, and love that he brings. It is a reminder of the prophecy that…
December 18, 2024 – Weekly news
Download the PDF Dec. 18, 2024 What Does the Fourth Advent Candle Stand for? In contemporary Western Christianity, the typical Advent wreath has four candles inside an evergreen wreath. Each one is lit during a new week of Advent and has a particular meaning attached to it. Candle 1 is purple, known as “the Prophet’s Candle,” and it stands for hope. Candle 2 is purple, known as “the Bethlehem Candle,” and stands for peace. Candle 3 is pink or rose-colored, known as “the Shepherd’s Candle,” and stands for…
December 11th, 2024 – Weekly News
Download the PDF Dec. 11, 2024 The third week of Advent The third week of the season is characterized by joy. The third candle lit during this week is usually pink, signifying the joy that comes from the nearing celebration of Christmas. Often referred to as the “Shepherd’s Candle,” it emphasizes the joy announced by the angels at Jesus’ birth.This week serves as a vibrant reminder for Christians to experience and share joy amidst life’s challenges and to celebrate the…
December 4th, 2024 – Weekly news
Download PDF Dec. 4, 2024 The second week of Advent The second week of Advent centers on the theme of peace. The second candle, often referred to as the “Bethlehem Candle,” is lit to symbolize the peace that Christ brings to the world. This week encourages believers to reflect on the idea of peace in their lives and communities. The focus during the second week is not only on the peace of Christ but also on how individuals can contribute…