On Sunday, December 15, the children of Missio Dei Church will be getting up in front of friends and family to present Angels, Animals, and the Cross. As the kids are finishing up rehearsing and preparing for their "big day", we too have some preparing to do for Sunday. 

Let me give you a math equation (A+B=C): lots of children + lots of guests = crowded church (even more so than a typical Sunday morning). So let me offer to you so quick helpful reminders that will help us be better prepare for Sunday morning. 

1. [Parking] If you are typically a two car family on a Sunday morning, consider how you can combine schedules to all drive together. If this is unattainable, maybe one vehicle can be parked at Oster-Oakview School. This is a great way to show the friends and family that will be joining us on Sunday morning that we care for them and have been thinking about them. 
   
2. [Pack the Pews] Another way to offer hospitality to our guests on Sunday morning is to be conscious of other people trying to find a seat. People will naturally come in late and we can often have the mindset of "you snooze, you loose". However, let us keep Philippians 2: 1-11 in mind and count others more significant than ourselves. An easy way to do this is to slide to the middle of the pew to allow others to sit on either end of the pew as they come in. 
   
3. [Clear the Isles] Sometimes just trying to get into church can be the most frustrating aspect for some people. We all love to greet people and welcome them into the building and recoonect with family and friends. That's great and I can't wait to hear how loud church will be with all the laughter and conversations happening. However, just be conscious on where you are going to be having those conversations. Consider moving into a pew to talk or moving to the front of church that way other friends and family can come in, have a seat, and get warm. 
4. [Lights, Camera, Action] We all want to have that special shot as the kids are singing (or not singing). As you move around to try and get your photos and video, just be conscious that other people are filming and taking pictures as well. We want you to capture the moment however you see fit, just don't ruin it for the guy behind you that has to stare at your butt the whole time. 
5. [Technology] Please remember to silence your iphone, ipad, ipod (or anything else with a lower case i in front of it), your android, and your camera. We want to hear your children and grandchildren sing, not your ringtones. 

Most of all, remember to greet people in the name of Jesus Christ. As excited as we are to see our children and grandchildren get up on stage on Sunday morning, we are all there to hear one message: that Jesus Christ did not just come into this world to be a baby and have people right some really nice songs that we sing once a year. Rather that he came to this earth on a mission from His Father to take away the sins of the world by this death on the cross and his resurrection from the grace. Let's not loose sight of that message!

We look forward to seeing you at 9:30am (but you will want to get here early to get your seat).