Spend Less and Give More

Some ideas to help you Spend Less this Christmas:

• Make a Christmas budget and then stick to it. Don’t compare yourself to others, pray and do what is best for your family.
• Research companies that are Fair Trade.
• Pray for the people on your Christmas list before purchasing anything. Make spending a conscious decision that engages your heart.
• It’s not just about the presents. Notice how much you’re spending on other Christmas activities (going out to eat, new outfits, wrapping paper, decorations, etc.). Find one area where you can cut back this year.
• Write down five things you’re thankful for. Take inventory of how blessed you already are.
• Set a spending limit as a family. Let everyone have the same amount to spend on each other. You’ll be surprised at how creative your kids will get!
• Donate old and unused clothes, toys, and books to a local organization. Notice how much stuff you actually don’t use or need.

Some ideas to help you Give More:

• Check out our list of relational gift ideas.
• If you’re overwhelmed, start small. Choose one person on your list to give a relational gift to.
• On Christmas morning, turn off your cell phone. Take a couple hours to be present with your family and focus on the people God has put in your life.
• Invest in experiences you can share. Sign up for dance lessons, go camping, plan a vacation, take cooking classes.
• Pass down memories. Make a recipe book or photo album to give to your family.
• Get a blank journal and write notes and prayers to your kids.
• Give a copy of your favorite book to a friend and then meet up for coffee and discuss it. Then switch and read their favorite book.
• Buy someone a gift that relieves a burden: babysitting money, help out with yard work, make a meal.
• Give the gift of hospitality. Invite a new family over for dinner and games.
• Do an activity with your kids – puzzles, jewelry making, baking, hiking, fishing, sports. Be present.

This Sunday we turn to Isaiah 55, where God invites us to a feast of abundance—no cost, no qualifications, just hunger and thirst.

In a season that often leaves us spiritually starved, join us on Sunday as we explore what truly satisfies and how God calls us to become people who set the table for others.

Preacher/Presider: Rev. Jake Fain
Assisting: Jeremy Davenport
Ushers: John & Patti Kassel
God’s Story: Shannon Johnson
Music: Steven Robbins
Communion: Carla Carter & Fritz Friesenhahn
Greeter: Ceretta Daum
Media: Mike & Kellie Stallings

The church directory for 2026 is available in the narthex. 

Not everyone feels merry at Christmas. For many, this season carries the weight of grief, stress, illness, or memories that make joy feel complicated. If you are longing for a quieter space—one of honesty, comfort, and gentle hope—we invite you to our Longest Night (Blue Christmas) Service on Sunday, December 21 at 6:30 PM at Peace Lutheran Church.

This worship offers a place to breathe, to pray, to remember, and to rest in God’s presence on the darkest night of the year. Whether you are grieving a loved one, walking through a difficult season, or simply needing a calmer Christmas moment, you are welcome.

Come as you are.
Come with whatever you carry.
Christ meets us in the dark—with compassion, peace, and light.

We hope you’ll join us.

First Footing is nearing the completion of construction phase 2 of their program, which will add 24 more beds for adults who are experiencing homelessness. This will increase bed capacity to 66, not including inclement weather shelter days. Last year nearly 500 people sought shelter and the waiting list was as high as 90 people, so the added beds will help better serve the community need.

First Footing purchased a wonderful bed system but needs help assembling the beds. Due to the timing of construction, help is needed on the weekdays of Thursday 12/11/25 and Friday 12/12/25 from 8am-12pm and 1-5pm both days. They will need about 10 people for each time slot. If you know of people who may be able to assist, here is the Sign Up Genius link with slots and instructions:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084DA4AD28A4F8C25-60717820-assembling

Thanks for your payers and for any help you can lend-

Kellie Stallings

Greetings, Peace Lutheran!

I will be out of the office December 23 - January 20 for my wedding and honeymoon! Please submit all January newsletter items, church duties substitutions, eblast announcements, and special music submissions before December 15th. I will be working ahead and preparing all worship materials before I leave. I will be unable to make any changes or updates to the eblast, newsletter, and worship materials in my absence.

Thank you!

Office Admin
Madison Clark
office@peacenb.org