Preparing for Christmas

Dear Pali Pres Community,

Happy Advent! I pray that as we enter into this special and holy season you are finding ways to root yourself in hope and anticipation. Amidst all the busyness, shopping, and fellowship activities, it is important for us as God’s people to not overlook the true meaning of Advent—to prepare ourselves, once again, for the coming of Jesus Christ into our world and into our hearts.

One of the ways I like to ready myself for the Christ Child is through music. Perhaps nothing lifts my soul more than Handel’s classic, the Messiah. Hearing almost any movement from his masterpiece immediately grounds my heart in the amazing love and splendor of our God.

I didn’t know until recently that Handel composed his glorious 260-page oratorio in just 24 days! I also didn’t know until recently that throughout his life Handel mostly wrote Italian operas, to meet the interests of the public. Thankfully, in 1741 Handel changed his tune (sorry, I couldn’t help myself) and wrote his glorious Messiah.

On Saturday, December 10th at 7pm our Pali Pres Chancel Choir, along with the Brentwood Presbyterian Church and Venice High School choirs, will give a joint concert featuring Part 1 (and the Hallelujah chorus!) from Handel’s Messiah with a small orchestra. The choral moments will be performed in a “sing-along” manner by the entire audience. I do hope you can join us for what is sure to be a wonderful evening of beautiful music. The concert is free, however we will take up a special offering to benefit the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance fund.

With prayers for you, our church, and our world during this holy season,

Pastor Matt