Christ’s Birthday Observance 2011 Informational Piece: Making Room
“She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:7(NIV).
There was no room; no place to stay at the end of the holy family’s long and arduous journey. There were no comfortable beds, warm cups of tea, or simple chairs to rest weary bones and muscles. No hostess greeted the weary travelers with a smile and nourishing food. The family was lost amid the busy, overcrowded city. They were forgotten.
Someone took pity on their plight and offered the only space available: the meager shelter for the animals. The only comfort for the forgotten family was the forgotten place. In the forgotten place, they made room for the holy. The Messiah was born. The forgotten space became sacred space.
Advent, the time of preparation and expectation, is about making room and turning forgotten spaces into sacred spaces. Become co-hosts with Christ and remind forgotten ones that they too are created in God’s holy image. Make room for the marginalized, oppressed, those at the edges and find sacred relationships.
General Information about the Christ’s Birthday Observance and Offering
What is the Christ’s Birthday Observance?
The Christ’s Birthday Observance is a tool to help your church begin the journey of Advent with prayer, devotion, and celebration.
Why should our church participate in the Christ’s Birthday Observance?
The Christ’s Birthday Observance brings focus upon Christ during a season which is filled commercialism. Since 1949 the Church of God around the world has focused on the birth of Jesus through devotion, prayer, and by giving generously to the Christ’s Birthday Offering. Join churches around the world as we share the great story of Christ’s birth to the world!
How can my church get involved?
Every church can participate in this journey by using advent resources, participating in project prayer, and by giving to the Christ’s Birthday Observance Offering. Each year your church will be sent a resource packet to help in the celebration. For more information check out www.wchog.org or call 866-778-0804