A Message For Christmas
As the familiar rhyme echoes through memory—“Christmas is coming and the geese are getting fat. Please put a penny in the old man’s hat…”—we’re gently invited to reflect on what truly matters during this sacred season. My mother used to sing this poem to me as a child, each line painting a picture of both anticipation and kindness. The geese, plumping up for winter, signal a world preparing for celebration. Yet, at the heart of the poem stands an old man with his hat stretched forth, a humble reminder that Christmas is not only about feasting or gifts, but about watching for those in need—and responding with open hands.
The poem’s refrain—“If you haven’t got a penny, half a penny will
do…”—speaks powerfully to the essence of generosity. It’s a gentle assurance that every offering, no matter how small, is precious in God’s eyes. In light of this thought, I’m often reminded of the Christian song that says “Little is much if God is in it”. Even those
who have little to give can participate in the joy of giving, for the true gift is the blessing we extend to others: “If you haven’t got a half penny, God bless you.” In these words, we find a spirit of radical inclusion and compassion—a message that no one is too poor to give, and no one is forgotten or left outside the circle of Christmas grace.
Carrying this spirit of humble giving, our church is embracing servant hood this Advent. We will sing Christmas carols to nursing home residents, sharing not just words but also presence and comfort with those who may feel alone. We’ll put together
Christmas stockings and deliver them to the residents at Barnes Kasson Hospital, each one a physical echo of the poem’s invitation: a small token, filled not only with gifts but with the warmth of community and the assurance that someone cares. In partnering to donate monies to the local interfaith program, we are helping to ensure that even more people—especially those facing hardship— can experience the joy and hope of Christmas.
We invite everyone in our church family to join in these acts of love. Whether you can sing, give, or simply offer a smile and prayer, your contribution matters just as the smallest penny in the poem. Together, as we live out its gentle wisdom, we become bearers of the message that Christmas is about sharing, blessing, and serving in
whatever ways we can.
Let us fill this season with small, sincere acts of love—reflecting Christ’s birth and His call to serve. May we bring light to others, honor the humble wisdom of the Christmas poem, and remember that the truest riches are found in sharing God’s love with a generous heart.
Wishing you all a joyful, generous, and blessed Christmas as we serve together.
As we journey through this Advent season, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to humility, generosity, and service. May each effort—no matter how small—bring hope and comfort to those around us, reflecting the true spirit of Christmas. It is my heartfelt
prayer that our church family continues to embody Christ’s love, shining His light into every corner of our community. May God bless you abundantly as you serve, give, and rejoice together in the miracle of His birth.
With every blessing, Pastor John
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Bible Memory Verses
Week 45 – John 16:24 “Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” – John 16:24b, ESV
Week 46 – John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16, KJV
Week 47 – 1 John 4:7 “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.” – 1 John 4:7, NKJV
Week 48 – Hebrews 10:24 “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.” – Hebrews 10:24, NLT
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“Christmas Bells”
I heard the bells on Christmas Day, Their old, familiar carols play, And wild and sweet
The words repeat Of peace on earth, goodwill to men! —Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
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“O come, little children, O come, one and all! To Bethlehem haste, to the manger so small. God’s Son for a gift has been sent you this night, to be your redeemer, your joy and delight”
(Christoph von Schmid, 1794).
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“O music … thou hast taught us to see with our ears and hear with our hearts.” —Kahlil Gibran
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Bible Study Wednesday Evenings – 6pm in the Community Building
Choir Practice – Thursday’s at 1pm
You may reach Pastor John at #607-651-4760 or at his.ship@gmail.com
Wednesday, December 3rd – Bible Study – 6pm
Sunday, December 7th- 2nd Sunday in Advent
Tuesday, December 9th – Ladies Christmas Tea – Montrose Bible Conference -11am to 1pm
Tuesday, December 9th– Session Meeting – 6pm
Thursday, December 11th – Presbyterian Women Meeting – 11am
Sunday, December 14th – 3rd – Sunday in Advent
Sunday, December 14th– Service at Barnes Kasson – 3pm
Wednesday, December 17th – Men’s Breakfast – 8am
Saturday, December 20th – Kessler’s Christmas Party – 7pm
Sunday, December 21st – 3rd Sunday in Advent
Sunday, December 21st – First Day of Winter
Wednesday, December 24th – Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Thursday, December 25th – MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Wednesday, December 31st – New Years Eve
Thursday, January 1st – HAPPY NEW YEAR!
E-Mail Carolyn White with any praises, joys, or prayer requests (whisperpines@frontiernet.net) throughout the week.
We are collecting for Interfaith Christmas Bureau. Please make your checks out to Franklin Hill Presbyterian Church. And please mark your donation on envelop or check that it is for Interfaith. We will then make one check out from Franklin Hill Presbyterian Church to give directly to Interfaith. Any further questions, please see Pastor John.
Our church is currently seeking a new treasurer, as Julie has expressed her desire to step away, when a replacement is available. Any interested persons should inform Pastor John or a Session member.