Dear River Reach Family,

But emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.

Philippians 2:7

I am so thankful for this time of year to reflect on the incarnation of our Lord. The fact that Jesus left the glories of heaven and came down to earth as a little baby communicates a powerful lesson for us to emulate. Sometimes is it difficult for us to get along with others. Unity of a family or church would be impossible without the power of Christ at work in each of us. While encouraging the Philippian believers to be unified, Paul turns to the humility of Jesus Christ in His incarnation and subsequent self-sacrificial death as a pattern for us to follow in navigating relationships in this life. No one has ever lowered themselves more than Jesus Christ, but no one will ever be exalted higher than Jesus Christ! This Christmas, let’s meditate on Christ’s humility and ask Him to help us develop that same attitude in ourselves for His glory!

Sermon: “The Power of Christmas Humility” – Philippians 2:1-11

Christmas Holiday Schedule:

Due to the Christmas holidays, please pay careful attention to our adapted schedule!

• Sunday 12/22 – 9:25am – Sunday Classes (Adult and Children’s classes)
  • 10:30am – Morning Service: Songs and Sermon (Childcare provided)
  • No Evening Activities
• 12/25 – Christmas Day! (No Wednesday Service)
• Sunday 12/29 – Sunday 12/22 -9:25am – Sunday Classes (Adult and Children’s classes)
  • 10:30am – Morning Service: Songs and Sermon (Childcare provided)
  • 12:00pm – New Year’s Fellowship / Rutledge’s Farewell Fellowship
  • No Evening Activities
• 1/1 – New Year’s Day! (No Wednesday Service)

Prayer Requests:

• Luke’s broken arms to heal
• Spiritual growth and strength for each one in our church
• Our nation to repent and turn to God
• Someone that the Lord can use you to lead to Christ
• Someone that the Lord can use you to lead to follow Christ
• Peace in our nation and around the world
• Our missionaries as they serve the Lord around the world

Blessed to be your Pastor!
Matthew Rowley