Happy Today
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...
Today is November 1, which means there's only54 days left until Christmas. With so little time until we all get our Yule on, the non-stop Christmas music will soon begin on one of our local radio stations. Of course, some of the stores already have their Christmas decorations out, and I suspect the holiday snowflakes will soon adorn the light poles along Highway 31 in Alabaster and Pelham.
It does seem that Christmas season comes earlier every year. Even Thanksgiving is viewed by many as little more than an opportunity for more Christmas sales. But as far as I'm concerned, November is still Thanksgiving month. I can only handle one holiday at a time.
But then I found out that I don't have to wait until the fourth Thursday in November to celebrate. There's more to November than I ever knew! Did you know that this month has been officially designated as both Peanut Butter Lover's Month and International Drum Month? (Try celebrating both of those at the same time!) It's also Manatee Awareness Month, Sweet Potato Awareness Month, and Historic Bridge Awareness Month. In case you weren't aware.
You probably are aware that today, Nov. 1, is All Saints Day (which evolved into All Hallow's Eve, and eventually into our Halloween). But did you know that today is also National Go Cook for Your Pets Day? It also marks the beginning of National Fig Week (which runs through next Thursday, so you've got plenty of time to celebrate).
This Sunday we'll be recognizing "Orphan Sunday" at Shelby Crossings, but perhaps a little later in the day you can take time to celebrate Sandwich Day. Actually, Nov. 3 is the birthday of John Montague, the Fourth Earl of Sandwich, creator of the world's first fast food. Hence, the celebration. (Wonder if he ever used peanut butter?)
The truth is that for those of us who have been redeemed by a gracious God, every day is worthy of celebration. Why don't you take a little time today to celebrate the wonderful gift God gave us in Jesus Christ. You don't have to wait for Christmas to celebrate Jesus, and you don't have to wait 'til Thanksgiving to be thankful.
So happytodayto all, and to all a good night. I'll see you Sunday. (Don't forget to "fall back.")
--Pastor Ken
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