Dear Church Family,

Not long ago, I was at a ballgame, enjoying the excitement of the crowd and cheering for the team. Seated just in front of me was a young child who streams our church services regularly. I could tell something was on his mind because he kept glancing back at me, as if he couldn’t quite place who I was. Finally, the child turned around and exclaimed, “Hey, aren’t you the church guy?” We all had a good laugh at the moment. I was not expected to be found in a gym instead of the church building.

That little exchange got me thinking. How often do we fail to recognize Jesus because we don’t expect to encounter Him where we are? John 1:10-14 tells us, “He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him.” Even as Christ dwelt among His people, many missed His presence because they simply weren’t looking for Him.

During Advent, we are reminded of the miracle and wonder of Christ’s arrival. But are we truly looking for Him or are we so focused on the season's busyness that we fail to recognize His presence all around us?

Advent is a time of expectation and preparation.  It is a time of actively seeking the presence of Christ in our lives, but too often, our eyes are fixed on shopping lists, schedules, and celebrations. We can easily forget that Christ’s Spirit dwells within us, calling us to carry His love into every situation we encounter. Are we mindful of His presence in our conversations, our workplaces, and yes, even in the gym at a ballgame?

Just as that child eventually recognized me out of context, we need to train our hearts to recognize Jesus in unexpected places… even if that means bringing His presence with us. The truth of Advent is that God came to dwell among us. “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). He is still with us, offering His grace and truth in every moment.

This Advent season, let’s slow down and open our eyes to the many ways Christ’s presence is here with us. Whether it’s through an act of kindness, a moment of stillness, or even the laughter of a child, Jesus is all around us. Let’s not miss the chance to encounter Him. Let’s bring Him into every moment and every situation, for He has come to dwell with us.

Loving you all, 
Michael